Last Wednesday a large group of 10 persons met at Chili's to discuss thedebut novel of Kathleen Grissom entitled "The Kitchen House".
Those present were Sarah, Kathy, Julie, Donna, Nancy, Madeleine, Betsy,
Marsha, Janet and Nettie.
Kathy was very well prepared with several good questions about the book.
The first topic of discussion was whether we liked the narrative coming from
2 different voices. Yes we liked seeing the perspective of life on the plantation
from Belle, the black slave and the other from an indentured white girl.
We went on to discuss the keeping of secrets and how things may have changed
if these secrets had been revealed. The 2 big secrets were the paternity of Belle
and the molestation of Marshall by the tutor.
We had all read the book and agreed that it held our interest to the end even
though it was at times like a soap opera.
We discussed Lavinia's character and how she was weak, lacking in confidence
and willing to marry anyone just for security.
Of course Marshall's character and how the molestation affected him was another
lengthy discussion. We also touched upon the subject of opium addiction which
was popular back then. The uniqueness of Ben and his 2 women and how they
lived in somewhat harmony was also marvelled on.
Kathy also gave us some background on the author and how she became inspired
to writing this book. She said voices of her characters spoke to her. The question
was posed as to whether she would continue the story through the eyes of maybe
two of the offsprings.
December 11th was chosen for the next meeting and Sarah chose a book called
"State of Wonder" by Ann Patchett which is about microbiologists working
in the jungles of Brazil. I think we should all enjoy it as I did but am now reading it for the second time.
