Books with a Buzz

Circe by Madeline Miller is a book set in ancient Greek times. She was born in the house of Helios, but is not powerful like other gods, though she discovers she has the power of witchcraft. She hones her craft and tames wild beasts and crosses paths with many famous figures including Odysseus.

bestselling debut novel about a lonely widow, Tova, who forms an unlikely friendship with a clever giant Pacific octopus named Marcellus at the aquarium where she works.The story follows Tova as she grapples with the grief of losing her son decades earlier, while Marcellus, a grumpy but insightful octopus, uses his intelligence to help her uncover the truth about his disappearance. The narrative, which includes chapters from Marcellus's perspective, explores themes of loneliness, love, family, and second chances, and has been adapted into a Netflix film.

Hi Bee Members! We'll be reading the "There There" by Tommy Orange. So fun fact, I'm developing my first ever indie film with a few of my friends. Our film dives deeps into local narrative perspectives on what it means to live in Hawai'i. So as we are defining the script at the moment, I figured, reading great literary influence can help demonstrate how separate narrative threads can weave together to form a single, powerful portrait of cultural belonging.

You're welcome to attend even if you haven't quite finished the book, as long as you don't mind spoilers being discussed. Attendees should generally expect to order something to eat or drink.

Here's a description of the book:

Tommy Orange's wondrous and shattering novel follows twelve characters from Native communities: all traveling to the Big Oakland Powwow, all connected to one another in ways they may not yet realize.

Among them is Jacquie Red Feather, newly sober and trying to make it back to the family she left behind. Dene Oxendene, pulling his life together after his uncle's death and working at the powwow to honor his memory. Fourteen-year-old Orvil, coming to perform traditional dance for the very first time. Together, this chorus of voices tells of the plight of the urban Native American--grappling with a complex and painful history, with an inheritance of beauty and spirituality, with communion and sacrifice and heroism.

Hailed as an instant classic, There There is at once poignant and unflinching, utterly contemporary and truly unforgettable.

Rated: 3.97 on Goodreads

If you're not interested in being the organizer but you'd like to host a one-time meeting, it's easy! Just pick a book, a date, and a venue, and commit to attending! Message the organizer to find out more. Don't be shy: We have over 2,000+ members, so there are sure to be a few people who want to read whatever book you're excited about. We're always looking for hosts to help keep the book club vibrant!