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| Spot the Difference! |
Dear Bookclub,
Festively ensconced in the Vintana holiday luncheon mayhem, our lovely group gathered to discuss Claire Keegan's "Small Things Like These". Discussion was challenging due to a long table in bustling surroundings; generally, the book was well-liked although some found the depressing topic not in keeping with the season. As a "Christmas read", Keegan's tale is more Dickensonian than Fannie Flagg. Blindsided by the unexpected ending, we wanted more, yet deeply appreciated the beauty of the unsaid. One can only hope that pragmatic Eileen, Furlong's wife, will honour Christmas in her heart and try to keep it all the year (as a dutiful Ebeneezer would), allowing young Sarah to flourish. Keegan's tapestry of characters, most notably Mrs. Wilson and Ned, lent a believable, memorable flow to the novella
Keegan's book sparked a curiosity about the laundry and the timing of the story. The Magdalende Laundries, also known as Magdalene asylums were in existence from the 18th century into the late 20th century, the last one closing in 1994:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magdalene_Laundries_in_Ireland
The above images are from the Justice for Magdalene Research website, an organization dedicated to educating the public about and supporting research into the Magdalene Laundries. Please read more about the history and ongoing struggle to recognize the wrongful institutional abuse of 10,000 + women:
On December 3, 2024, Oprah announced this selection as being her latest pick for her bookclub. Check out the 109 books she has chosen since 1996... you will recognize quite a few!
https://www.oprahdaily.com/entertainment/books/g23067476/oprah-book-club-list/
As our luncheon came to a close, truth stranger than fiction delivered an unbelievable moment, as our waiter revealed that he had been a kindergarten student of Lori's! The moving moment was a huge tribute to the influence we know Lori holds with her caring gift in the classroom and beyond:
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| Lori and Arjuna |
Finally, our Gently Hugged efforts, spearheaded by Julie, were much appreciated by Sharon who received Julie's delivery just days after our luncheon. Gently Hugged distributed 905 bags of newborn clothing, board books and blankets to needy babies throughout San Diego County last year. This is a record yet requests for help outnumber what they've been able to supply. Gently Hugged will expand their operations to a second site in the Carlsbad area. The current Rancho Bernardo site will continue unchanged. Please read more about the organization and how you can continue to help throughout the year:
https://gentlyhugged.org/home/
Up next:
Happy 2025 reading!
LK
