Wolf Hall — February 4, 2010 — First meeting

Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel

Seven members of our brand new book discussion group met at my house to discuss Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall last night. The majority of group members really liked the book and most either finished it or are planning on finishing it.

People liked the unusual perspective that Mantel took in this book — being sympathetic with Thomas Cromwell. One person commented that it was like being in Cromwell’s head.

A couple of group members liked the history lessons it provided. Most agreed that the book was well written, although one person said she was disappointed that she didn’t have to use a dictionary with a book that won the Man Booker Prize. I think she was half-serious.

One group member thought that Mantel didn’t portray women well — that she portrayed strong (ambitious?) women as being malicious. He felt that the only women Mantel portrayed in a good light were the mother figures. (Not having finished or really liked the book myself, I don’t know which women he meant or his exact words).

A couple of people wondered, perhaps jokingly, if Mantel was planning on a sequel. They also wondered why she chose to end the book where she did.

Also discussed:

• the title of the book — why Wolf Hall?
• the plague
• other media about this time period:
  • A Man for all Seasons
  • The Tudors
• whether Thomas Cromwell was a good father or just a good mentor
• whether Wikipedia can be a trusted reference

Food included small savory minced beef pies, mini-quiches, and an assortment of cheeses from England.  Dessert consisted of cranberry scones and blackberry tarts. Wine was also consumed.

It was a successful and fun evening and I’m glad we started this group. It’s fun getting together with neighbors and hearing their impressions of a shared experience. My only regret is that I didn’t really get much out of the book by listening to it. Maybe, when I’ve read some things that I’ve been wanting to read and after reading the books for book groups, I’ll give Wolf Hall another go.

Next up: The Believers by Zoe Heller at Michael’s house (possibly with a guest speaker). Date to be determined.

Origins of a book club

The flyers were sent out over a month ago, asking if folks on the street were interested in joining a book group. Less than 10 people responded, but that’s ok since we can grow from there — possibly bring in more people from the neighborhood.

We had a few books suggested for our first read:

• The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
• Brooklyn by Colm Tobin
• Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver
• Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
• Last Night in Twisted River by John Irving

I created a poll to select a book and currently Wolf Hall is in the lead by one point. Brooklyn is one point behind Wolf Hall. A surprising number of people don’t seem to like John Irving, or at least his latest book.

The dates that people can meet might be a problem as most have small children and other commitments. Currently we’re on for Thursday, January 28 if no one else weighs in — one member said she specifically could not meet on that day, so hopefully she’ll select the days she can meet and another day will be found.

I’m planning on hosting the first book club at my house.

Looking forward to this really getting started. I think we’ve got a great group and we’ll have lively discussions, no matter what we read.