CHALLENGES

“In every fairy tale, the girl who is saved is the one who rescues herself." This sentiment is echoed throughout the novel as Mia must navigate the complexities of love, fate, and autonomy. Her ability to save herself, rather than relying on outside forces, is a message of empowerment.

By the end of your reading, think about how Mia’s journey, along with the other female characters, illustrates the complexities of life, love, and self-discovery. These questions are designed to help you navigate those complexities and engage with the novel’s emotional depth.

So, as you read A Visit from the Goon Squad, don’t worry about whether you’re getting it. None of that matters. The point is to have fun reading a tangle of stories in contrasting styles. 

Welcome to our Book Club discussion of The Echo of Lost Books by Barbara Davis! This novel blends elements of Historical Fiction, Romance, and Mystery, making it the perfect pick based on the genres we all love. Throughout our reading journey, we’ll explore themes of heartbreak, tragedy, and the possibility of starting afresh.

Barbara Davis is an accomplished author of mystery, history, and literary fiction, blending these genres effortlessly to create captivating, emotionally resonant stories. Raised in the South and now living in New England, Davis made a remarkable career shift after more than a decade in the jewelry industry.

I first encountered Jennifer Egan while driving and listening to a podcast, Minnie Questions, where the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of A Visit from the Goon Squad was being interviewed. Although I had heard her name before, I’d never read any of her work. She came across as so soft-spoken and down-to-earth that I was instantly intrigued.

A defining characteristic of Hoffman’s storytelling is her masterful use of mystical realism, weaving together elements of magic, irony, and unconventional relationships. Though her narratives often venture into the fantastical, the emotional depth and relatability of her characters make the experience feel grounded in reality.

Many of us were particularly struck by the emotional depth of the characters, especially Hester. Initially, some of us viewed Hester as a victim, but we quickly came to see her as a strong, defiant woman.

An American novelist and short story writer best known for his works exploring themes of sin, guilt, and morality. Born in Salem, Massachusetts, Hawthorne came from a family with deep Puritan roots, a legacy that profoundly influenced his writing. 

Reading list for 2025 Ramblers' Book Club and Reading Challenge by Naomi Weisman. Three genres emerged as favorites: Historical Fiction, Romance, and Mystery, with a special focus on strong, compelling female characters. 

Setting a daily step goal ignites your motivation to walk more. Choosing a realistic daily step goal is an opportunity for personal growth. Here is how!

In today's fast-paced world, where stress, information overload, and constant distractions are all too familiar, it's important to cultivate habits promoting mental clarity and emotional well-being. One such habit, often overlooked, is daily journaling.