June Book Selections

So this is super late, my apologies, but life just got in the way. These are for the month of June, for which we'll be meeting for dinner at a (to be determined) restaurant. Our selections this month come from Paulette.

Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace One School at a Time, by David Oliver Relin and Greg Mortenson

Greg Mortenson recounts his experiences as co-founder of the Central Asia Institute, a nongovernmental organization that, since the 1990s, has done exemplary work in Pakistan and Afghanistan, where it has built and operated schools and improved public health. He tells how, by working side-by-side, the villagers and the staff of the CAI have overcome challenges, drawn on strengths, and worked toward breaking down the ignorance and prejudice that might otherwise have divided them. It has not been easy and the need is great, says Mortenson, and underscores the fact that the positive work of NGOs like the Central Asia Institute can go far in fighting terrorism.

Pub. 2/08, Paperback, 349 pgs

Lucky, by Alice Sebold

Raped and beaten as an 18-year-old Syracuse University student, Alice Sebold recounts the story of her rape, the trial and conviction of her rapist, and her recovery. Her book also tells the story of its own coming into being. Immediately after the rape, Sebold vowed to write about it, and worked it out in various forms before sculpting it into its final shape 18 years later while completing a graduate degree in fiction writing.

Pub. 9/02, Paperback, 272 pgs

Water for Elephants, by Sara Gruen

Jacob Jankowski, 90 years old and living in a nursing home, tells how, orphaned and penniless during the Great Depression, he became an animal trainer in a circus. In his days with The Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth, he falls in love with the beautiful performer Marlena - and also with the delightful Rosie the elephant.

Pub. 5/07, Paperback, 350 pgs

You have through May 15th to cast your vote!

In the meantime, get a copy of The Secret Daughter, by Shilpi Somaya Gowda for our meeting on May 20th and check out the links in the post below for some ideas on Indian recipes.