All of The Bookworm staff are avid readers and a couple of us take part in more than one bookclub on a monthly basis.  Bookclubs introduce you to books you may have not read before and allow you to hear others' points of view.  The list below is a sampling of books that we have found work well for bookclub discussions.  Remember, not everyone has to like the book; in fact, the discussion is always better when there is someone who isn't fond of the book. 

 

Suggestions for Bookclubs

The Moonlit Cage by Linda Holeman (Canadian author)

The story takes place during the 1800s in Afghanistan, India and London. It is the story of a young Muslim woman as she flees from an abusive husband.

 

No Great Mischief by Alistair MacLeod (Canadian author)

The story revolves around the loyalty and traditions of a Cape Breton family.  Wonderfully written!

 

The Stone Angel by Margaret Laurence (Canadian author)

Many of us had to read this one in high school.  However, this is probably more suitable for discussion by a bit of an older crowd.  The main character, Hagar Shipley, is a memorable character whose life is near the end.  Through Hagar we learn about her childhood, her marriage, the son she loved, and the son she never loved.

 

the five people you meet in heaven by Mitch Albom

An original story about the afterlife and the meaning of our lives here on earth. A great discussion book!

 

I Am Hutterite by Mary-Ann Kirkby (Canadian author)

Mary-Ann's true account of growing up on a Hutterite colony near Portage la Prairie for the first 10 years of her life. This books gives you great insight into the traditions and everyday life on a Hutterite colony.

 

a long way gone: memoirs of a boy soldier by ishmael beah

The true account of Ishmael Beah who at the age of twelve fled attacking rebels in Sierra Leone.  At thirteen, he was picked up by the government army and found he was capable of truly terrible acts.

 

Fault Lines by Nancy Huston (Canadian author) 

Winner of the Governor General's Award for Fiction

This book is narrated by four children from different generations of the same family. Very cleverly written!

 

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The story of a young girl who is taken to live with a foster family in Germany during the second World War. A great read that looks at the power of words.  The book was published as an adult book in Australia and a Young Adult book in the USA.  The author has stated that when he wrote the book, he had no age group in mind.  Definitely a book that would resonate with adults.

 

I Feel Bad about My Neck and Other Thoughts on Being a Woman by Nora Ephron

This is not your typical bookclub book; but, if you are looking for something that is a bit lighter and an easy read this book is perfect at only 137 pages. Ephron shares her ups and downs of getting older.  She discusses maintenance, menopause, empty nests, and life itself.

 

The Leaving by Budge Wilson (Canadian Author)

This book consists of eleven short stories that are particularly memorable. These are moving stories about girls and women and the people who shape their lives.  Wilson has a beautiful way with words and many of the stories are truly unforgettable.  The Leaving was published in 1990 and may have to be ordered online or borrowed from the library.  It is advertised as a young adult book; however, Budge Wilson has stated it she wrote it for adults.  If you choose this book you can also discuss which age group you think it is more suitable for.