which was Bear Town by Swedish author Fredrik Backman.
We had as I recalled, some pot pies which I had never made before
but I think they were well accepted by our group. Kathy brought her chop
salads and I finished with a mango mousse also something I had never made.
I hope I can remember who attended but I think it was Kathy, Betsy, Madeleine,
Sarah, Doug, Carol, Marsha and Carol who left for her choir practice.
Julie had planned on attending but had a burn issue and could not.
We had all read the book and loved it.
Bear Town is a hockey town in Sweden but some of us thought it could
have been the Midwest like Minnesota or Wisconsin. Bear Town is a small
town located deep in the forest and it is facing financial ruin due to
industries closing. But the small town is competing in a National Hockey semi
final and actually have a shot at it. All the hopes and dreams of the town
rests n the hands a few teenaged boys. This is a heavy burden for these
boys and the semi final match is the catalyst for a violent act
committed by the star player. This rape leaves one girl traumatized and
leaves the town divided in their loyalty. Finally two of the boys come forward and
do the right thing giving us hope in humanity and redemption.
The characters are well drawn. They are both flawed and heroic.
Bear Town is about hockey but it is so much more than just hockey.
It is about Love, sacrifice, friendship, family, and hope to name a few. There is
a sequel that just came out called "Us Against You".
We decided to go with a Pat Conroy book entitled, "South Of Broad".
May 29 was chosen for the next meeting.
