Tuesday, August 2, 2005 - 10:30 AM
Stone Heart by Diane Glancy
In honor of the bicentennial of the Corps of Discovery, hear about the Lewis and Clark expedition from the voice of Sacajawea, their Shoshone guide. Her voice is presented side by side with excerpts from the journals of the two leaders, presenting a unique look into the time, place, and culture of this epic event.

Tuesday, September 6, 2005 - 10:30 AM
Cry the Beloved Country by Alan Paton
Hailed as the most important novel of South African literature, this book tells the story of a Zulu pastor and his son in 1940s South Africa - a land divided by race. "A beautiful novel, rich, firm, and moving . its writing is so fresh, its projection of character so immediate and full, its events so compelling and its understanding so compassionate, that to read the book is to share intimately, even to the point of catharsis, in the grave human experience." (New York Times)

Tuesday, October 4, 2005 - 10:30 AM
Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes
When Frances Mayes began to restore a villa in Italy, she found not only hidden treasures in her new home but also in the countryside and people around her. "In Under the Tuscan Sun, she brings the lyrical voice of a poet, the eye of a seasoned traveler, and the discerning palate of a cook and food writer to invite readers to explore the pleasures of Italian life and to feast at her table."

Tuesday, November 1, 2005 - 10:30 AM
The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri
A story of movement across countries and cultures, of the "otherness" than accompanies the immigrant experience, and the importance of a name all appear in this story that spans the generations of an Indian-American family and a son striving for a place in all his cultures.

Tuesday, December 6, 2005 - 10:30 AM
Whirligig by Paul Fleischman
When Brent accidentally kills a girl in a car accident her parents ask for only one thing - that he place four "whirligigs" around the United States, spreading the joy she found in these simple machines. As Brent makes his journey he discovers things about what caused him to do what he did, about the girl he is honoring, and about himself.

All discussions are free - no registration is required.

Just read the book prior to the meeting!
For more information contact the
El Retiro Library
126 Vista del Parque, Redondo Beach (310) 375-0922
www.library.torrnet.com