Book Club

January 2026

I joined a book club in the fall, which is mainly made up of women from my ward. I have felt a little conflicted about the whole experience. We meet monthly, and out of the four books we've read, I hated one of them (Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers) , enjoyed two (this month's selection and The Rent Collector by Camron Wright), and the other, When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi, was just okay. 

Also, it's taken us a bit to get into our groove. Our ages span from about 25 to almost 80. There is always an over talker or two. I tend to worry about that dynamic much more than I should. 

I do appreciate how it is set up. We vote on the next three books and rotate who is hosting and who brings food. I must say, the food served each month has been what's kept me hanging on! It's been impressive.

This month's book has been my favorite so far. We read The Residence, Inside the Private World of the White House by Kate Brower. The gathering was at my house. I made this fancy invitation, and the ladies who volunteered for the food delivered. They brought individual charcuterie boards in a fancy wrap, chicken salad on crackers, chocolate covered cherries, sausages, a layered cake, delicious drink options, and more. Also, my friend Debbie arranged for two of the young women in the ward to serve us refreshments throughout the evening...fancy! 

I am glad I didn't quit early on because it is growing on me. I have only been able to attend two of the four gatherings, but I've read all of the books. It's fun to be able to visit with my friends about the books we are reading even before the gathering. There are usually about twelve ladies who are able to make it.  The friendships are becoming deeper, and it's fun to feel the unity. 

The refreshment crew plus two cute servers: Michelle and Amelia Anderson, Liz C., Debbie Carlston and Diana Roach