I was in a book club at my previous job at the National Park Service.  Since we were a bunch of historians, architects, and cultural resource people many of the book club selections, although not all, were historical fiction.  We’d meet for lunch in one of the conference rooms to discuss the books.  We’d draw names out of a hat to decide whose turn it was to pick the next selection.  It was quite fun and a good chance to connect with coworkers.  One of the books I enjoyed reading was “City of Light” by Lauren Belfer.  It’s set in Niagara Falls at the turn of the century.  Although it’s fiction and does take certain liberties, I found it to be a quick read.

Best of luck!

Laura

-----Original Message-----
From: Annmarie Zan [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Thursday, October 09, 2003 12:23 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Books books books

OK here's a fun one for all you American history buffs who like to read on this site. I am starting an adult book club in January at our museum based on American history. My first job is to select the books we will read for the first several months. I am looking for a well rounded group with each individual book being able to be read within a month and have enough substance to fill a two hour discussion. These can be historical fiction or nonfiction. Another idea is two short books that can be compared and contrasted (I'm already thinking of Twelve Years a Slave and Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl). These books would have to be in print and for cost purposes preferably available in paperback. I'm thinking of starting with In the Heart of the Sea any other ideas? Also has anyone done this before and how did it go? Any advise? Anyone in the Chicago area that's interested in joining me contact me off list. Talk to you all soon Annmarie. Interpretive Specialist Isle a la Cache Museum Romeoville IL