Yesterday I wrote about the book The Worst Hard Time. It was a wonderful book club pick, one that’s stayed with me for many years. But there were several other books my book club in Champaign, Illinois, read that deserve a mention.
One of my favorites was Devil in the White City, by Erik Larson, a true story about a serial killer who plied his trade during the 1893 Chicago World Exposition. While it’s nonfiction, the book reads like novel. I was totally engrossed.
Another great read was Loving Frank, based on the story of a woman who loved the architect Frank Lloyd Wright so much that she left her family for him.
This was a book that stirred emotions and sparked heated discussions. It’s beautifully written and thought provoking.
My favorite book, though, from the book club years was The Whistling Season, by Ivan Doig. This is a book that honors teachers and education. It’s absolutely beautiful, and will make you yearn for simpler times.
I have book club issues. It’s difficult for me to read what someone tells me to read, but these books are evidence that I can follow directions. At least for awhile.
Peace, people.
Praying for Eyebrowz 
I’ve read Loving Frank and Devil in the White City and really enjoyed them. I will look for the other two in your post. I host book club in March and looking for a book for us to read so your timing for me is perfect! Thanks for sharing!
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I’ve recommended The Whistling Season to everyone I know and it always gets awesome reviews. It might be my all time favorite book club read.
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Just one method of choosing books – knowing the recommender helps
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I may hate a book club pick, but it gets me out of my comfort zone…which I need!
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I wouldn’t mind reading a book I had little interest in if I knew the book club would actually discuss it. I know they’re not all the same, but the two I’ve been part of were more into everything BUT the book. I’d arrive with notes and bookmarks and we’d talk about social stuff. I can do that any time.
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My book clubs really do discuss the book! Do you have a Barnes near you? They doa book club usually the first Tuesday of the month
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I’ll have to check that out.
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3 more books to put on my list. Thanks! Sounds intriguing… 🙂
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Yay! In my opinion, The Whistling Season is the best of the bunch.
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I read Ivan Doig’s Dancing at the Rascal Fair long ago and was really impressed. I always meant to get back to him!
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And I haven’t read that one! I need to read more of his books, as well.
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Devil in the White City was good. I wish I could have attended the 1893 World’s Exposition. It must have been breathtaking.
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We hadn’t lived in Illinois long when I read that book. It made me want to see Chicago, and it made me want to run away from Chicago.
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