February’s Book Club meeting was held on February 14, 2023, at the home of Hostess Nancy Ladshaw, who, along with fellow hostesses Connie Hall, Ursula Price, and Beth Smith, treated everyone to a “Hearts and Valentine’s Day” theme, in keeping with the special day, and February’s book, The Heart, by Maylis De Kerangal. The “menu” consisted of foods mentioned in the book (which is set in France)- three different homemade, heart-shaped pizzas- Margherita, Pepperoni, and 4 Cheese (Mozzarella, Parmesan, Gorgonzola, & Ricotta); Energy Bars; Pepito and Chamoix cookies; as well as a meat & cheese charcuterie board; vegetable tray, Pavlova (a meringue dessert); and homemade heart-shaped Red Velvet cake. Along with the meal, the Ladies enjoyed Pink Lemonade, Champagne, Choco Vine, Coca Cola; and flavored water. Everything was beautiful and delicious, and everyone was appreciative of the fun and festive goodies and ambiance!

Following the meal, the Hostesses led the group in an interesting and informative discussion of The Heart, whose theme circulates around life, death, organ donation, and the complex and lengthy process involved therein. The ladies discussed in depth the different characters in the book; their feelings toward the characters and circumstances in the book; and how they would handle the same if they or their loved ones were faced with similar situations. Most of us agreed that we had no idea what all is involved in the process of organ donation, or how difficult it would be if we were faced with the imminent death of a loved one, and had to make decisions during unimaginably stressful and difficult times. All agreed the book is well written and informative, and makes the reader aware of the importance of organ donation in saving those in need of transplants. The ladies enjoyed the discussion and the afternoon, and thanked the Hostesses for their hard work, planning, and delicious refreshments.

Our next Book Club Meeting is on March 14, 2023, and our Book of the Month is Queen Bee by Dorothea Benton Frank. If you are interested in joining “Hooked On Books”, please email your contact information to alanehaardt@yahoo.com. All ladies are welcome!