For Book Groups

Dear Book Group Readers, 

Many of the greatest moments of my life have involved groups of  kindred spirits,  food,  wine and great books.  Conversations,  epiphanies and life changes large and small have come about as a result of reading and  talking — our visions inspired and complemented, spurred on or, at times, tempered by those of great writers.

At my own table, the farmhouse table at Hedgebrook (one  beloved sanctuary for such discussions) or amidst the bustle of Manhattan publishing lunches, so many ideas and dreams have been rooted, nourished and celebrated. Books have helped us and we have helped books.

All of this happens among the women of Unruly Passions, too. The 19th century was a fertile time for literature and conversation, even among those who were not allowed to speak freely — and were excluded from expression in the culture at large. I invite you to join and continue the conversation, and hope that their passions inspire your own.  

— Carole DeSanti