Books Build a Bridge

Last week, while on vacation, I took several books with me. Over the span of 10 days, I read three books. (Something Blue by Emily Giffin, Folly Beach by Dorothea Benton Frank, and Full of Grace by Dorothea Benton Frank)

On two separate occasions at the pool, I was reading Folly Beach and had complete strangers start up a conversation about the book I was reading and that particular author. The first day, I thought it was funny and the gal who spoke to me chatted off and on for a while. The next day, a lady struck up a conversation with me and we talked for over 30 minutes. After discussing the current book I was reading, we talked about other books by the same author, various other Southern authors, other favorite books and then about our families, home, school and more. She was so friendly and I enjoyed our conversation.

Obviously, Greg was with me at the pool or NO conversations would have evolved! I have always enjoyed being poolside with a good book. All through middle school and high school, I devoured books at the country club pool where we were members. Since having children, poolside means being vigilant, being in the water with little ones and being splashed continuously! It is a rare occasion for me to read at the pool now!!!

I was struck by what a conversation starter a book can be. People who enjoy reading are often very passionate about it. They are very opinionated about their selections. They follow favorite authors and watch for a new book to be published the way many follow movie and music releases. They are quick to recommend a good read! The ladies I was fortunate to meet were well versed on many of my favorite authors and books. I love discussing the books I read, but it is not as interesting when I am talking to someone who has never read the book or that particular author.

It made me realize how much I'd really like to start a book club and get together with other friends who enjoy a good book and conversation! Any takers on this idea?

By the way - if you are looking for a good "summer" book, check out one by Dorothea Benton Frank. She has written 10 or more novels, all set in the vicinity of Charleston, SC. She grew up on Sullivan's Island. Her first novel was set there and titled the same. The sequel to it, Return to Sullivan's Island, was also good. So far I have read Lowcountry Summer, Folly Beach, Full of Grace and the two Sullivan's Island books. All have contained interesting characters, explored quirky family dynamics and had a good bit of history, Gullah culture and cuisine mixed in to create a great and quick read.