Would you like to feel confident and inspired to read a truly great book?
A different kind of book club that will meet at Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club might be just what you need.
The Big Read, led by Paul Duck, will accept the challenge of classics that have stood the test of time (and are free to download).
“Our first adventure will be George Eliot’s (real name Mary Anne Evans) ‘Middlemarch’, regarded as the greatest British novel ever written,” Paul said.
“Set in a fictional English Midlands town in 1829-1832, it follows distinct, intersecting stories with many characters. It enables us to see the world in a new, sympathetic light.
“Lest readers feel overawed, we will at our first meeting discuss how the first chapter gets the novel under way. Middlemarch, at over 800 pages, was first published, like a modern TV series, in instalments in 1871-72.
“Readers savoured – and eagerly anticipated – its unfolding story. And so will our group, taking time to share reflections and setting a reading goal for each two week stretch. The novel is challenging but not too demanding. Like footballers in pre-season training, we will sharpen skills that may be rusty.
“It will make a nice change from doomscrolling. We’ll have fun sharing our thoughts and leave each session feeling more inspired to keep reading.”
Paul is well qualified to lead the group. After retiring from a career as an English teacher, he completed a PhD in literary education. He has, for several years, led a class in Ocean Grove that, under the auspices of U3A Geelong, enjoys discussing poetry.
Paulene Richardson commented on “the expert knowledge, enthusiasm and freshness” that he brings to that class.
The Big Read will meet at Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club, 101 The Terrace, every other Wednesday from 10.30am to noon, beginning February 5. It welcomes all ages and genders.
