Book suggested by Lori, meeting hosted by Lori.The book was chosen by Lori who led with some little known facts about the author (including that she hates to exercise). Kim observed that the Middle Place represents that time in our lives when we are caring for our children and our parents.
We discussed our relationships with our own fathers. Barb and Lori both felt that they had a "Greenie" in their lives, while others did not feel that way. It was interesting that the author's cancer seemed to take a backseat to her father's cancer. She seemed to focus on him and his treatment more than her own. Some wanted more of the illness brought to the forefront, while others did not want to hear about the cancer. We felt that the book was more about the people and their relationships than the diagnoses.
We felt that the author was a bit of a prima dona, a rebel, and very independent. We were surprised that she revealed what we considered character flaws, including the time she went to Bed, Bath & Beyond and re-did her mother's house, or how it upset her when her husband talked enthusiastically to his parents. Some in the group liked her while others did not.
In general, the consensus was good for this book. (We missed Carol W., Carol M., & Missy at this meeting.)
Some adjectives heard when discussing this book were: great, fine, recommendable, incomplete, disappointed, likable, pushy, self-centered, and relatedness.
At the end of the book discussion, Kelly moved that we discontinue the policy of scoring the book to avoid any hurt feelings if members are sensitive to negative critique of their book choice. So, no scoring, thumbs up or thumbs down. Everyone agreed that we should still make sure everyone has the floor to voice their views. As before, the book selector chooses the format of the meeting. We will keep the scoring policy open to revisit as we may see necessary.
Link to Kelly Corrigan's website: http://www.kellycorrigan.com/
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