Ex Libris

Candace Biamonti, Coordinator

So many book clubs evolve around a themed reading list, perhaps focused on the year’s fiction prizewinners, historical figures, sci-fi scenarios, or emerging third world literatures. What I love about AWAR’s Ex Libris is that the membership keeps a single and unbeatable selection criterion: whatever makes a good read. We wander all publishing sectors. Just to sample: the 2006 reading list includes a 1500s satiric dialogue on whoredom by Pietro Aretino as well as a recent, best-selling novel by British author Ishiguro.  

The group that’s been meeting once a month for six years in the historic center comprises both Rome newcomers and old-timers. It reflects AWAR’s own membership: women from varied geographies and backgrounds providing a 360° outlook. Such input sparks interpretation; discussions are lively, characterized by a curious and common passion for books. We all easily agree: books get better when talked over with friends. Our meeting afternoon is, in fact, a friendly moment of very good talk.

So…if we don’t use theme guidelines, how do we actually decide what to read? Pretty informally. Participants in the Ex Libris mail list exlibris@awar.org can nominate books for future reading. Our globally aware membership often highlights works that could pass unnoticed in the huge mass market. For each selection a volunteer offers to prepare a jump-start presentation. Again the guidelines are pretty loose. Each presenter researches period, genre, author life and works, criticism, then decides what available information will best sharpen discussion. After all, we join together to talk about books. That’s the fun.

Not everyone who signs into the mail list can necessarily slot all monthly meetings into her schedule. But online chat, book comments and suggestions keep the group together. We invite you to join us. Additional info is available through the AWAR office.

text by Patricia Fogarty