Second Books & Banter Pick!

And a wrap-up of our first meeting :)

Wrap-up of our meeting about Independence

Our first meeting was a huge success!! We were joined by the esteemed author Chitra Divakaruni who was incredible—so kind and insightful and full of sunny smiles. She patiently answered all of our questions and gave us a tidbit about her forthcoming nonfiction novel. She could only stay for about 20-25 minutes and as soon as she logged off, all of us erupted in cheers. It was so cute, like “Go us!” Then we discussed the book and debated topics about India’s history, morality, .colonialism etc. And those who came in-person imbibed on Anand’s delicious custom creation for the night: a ‘Mumbai Mule’ with chai-flavored vodka 😋

Thank you so, so much to everyone who joined us online and in-person. It was amazing to talk books and politics and gossip with a bunch of wonderful people of different ages, races, religions and genders. It’s kind of amazing and there needs to be more of it in this world. 🩷

Some awards:

• Most underappreciated character: Jamini

• Most divisive character: the mom

• Saddest part: the father’s death

• Most clutch character: Hamid

Shoutout to Martine for joining us all the way from Hawaii, Gov for reppin’ the male perspective (and whose last name isn’t Rajani) and Rachna for bringing up a theme that we might see over and over again in future books…

Second Books & Banter pick

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi!! I’ve hyped this book up so much so I really hope you guys like it. It’s a historical fiction story that begins with a family in 18th century Ghana. That’s the only information I’m willing to disclose because the beauty of this book is uncovering the structure as you go. It’s pretty fast-paced and will give us plenty to talk about. I promise we’ll do a more fun one next!

We’ll plan to meet in late March. See you guys then! ✌🏽

Yours,

Harshada

PS - remember you can get the ebooks for free on the library’s Libby and Hoopla apps!