Book Discussion Group
The Book Discussion Group at the McClelland Library is led by Dr. Joyce East (left), a retired professor of Irish Studies, and Mary Wilber (right), a retired librarian and former member of the Scottsdale Library Board. The group seeks to engage members of our community with the tradition and excellence of all forms of Irish Literature.
Schedule for 2020 – 2021
September 26 Normal People by Sally Rooney (novel, 2018) Study Guide
Poems by Eavan Boland
October 24 The Story of Lucy Gault by William Trevor (novel, 2002) Study Guide
Poems by Eavan Boland
December 5 Translations by Brian Friel (play, first performed 1980) Study Guide
Poems by Eavan Boland
January 23 Star of the Sea by Joseph O’Connor (novel, 2002) Study Guide
Poems 1&2 and poem 3 by Eavan Boland Zoom Link
February 27 Book of Evidence by John Banville (novel, 1989) Study Guide
Poem 1 and 2 by Eavan Boland Zoom Link
March 27 Say Nothing by Patrick R. Keefe (nonfiction, 2019) Study Guide
Poem by Eavan Boland Zoom Link
April 24 The Deportees by Roddy Doyle (short stories, 2007) Study Guide
Poem by Eavan Boland Zoom Link
Time and Place;
Due to the extended closure of the Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library due to the Covid-19 crisis, are continuing to meet virtually on Zoom. Regardless of where we meet the meeting are continuing to be on Saturday mornings from 10:30AM to 12:30PM. Any changes in date or time will be announced in advance. (Prior to the closure we met in the Norton Room at the McClelland Library, Irish Cultural Center, we hope to be back there soon once it is safe to do so). Please share the links with a friend and let us all enjoy the literature of Ireland.
Experience the discussion online
The McClelland Library Book Discussion Group is going digital! Join us to continue the discussion after meetings by becoming a member of our Facebook group.
An Irish Literary Miscellany
Under this heading, we will explore the richness of Irish literature. No doubt we will discover common themes, settings, and characters as these works “talk” to one another. Our first goal is to enjoy each work for its own distinctive contribution to Irish literature. In addition to the announced work each month, we will be discussing a poem by Eavan Boland, a respected poet who passed this year. We will share a discussion guide early in each month. Reading the works and sharing your insights in the discussions will enrich our understanding of Irish literature and culture.
** These texts are available in new and used bookstores and on websites (Amazon, Powell’s, Daedalus). Some may be available in public libraries. Don’t forget possible electronic options: Amazon, for example, often offers a Kindle option as well as new and used copies.