Cindy's Book Club ends in one form, but begins in another

Cindy's Book Club started in June 2007 as sort of an experiment. We at 101QFL wanted to do something fun to reach out to our audience this summer, so we partnered with Cannoli Caffe for June, July and August.

In most ways, Cindy's Book Club has been an unqualified success. Frankly, we weren't overwhelmed with registrations for seats at the Book Reviews...I believe we had a high of about 20 registrations. However, those of you who did participate were wonderfully enthusiastic!

Since there were relatively few registrations, we were able to invite everyone who registered to come to the Book Reviews. The result? Several of you were able to come twice or even all three times...meaning we all got to know each other and connected in a wonderful way.

Each Book Review was thoroughly enjoyable. There was a lot of laughter, empathy, and as I said, real connection.

We discussed Lisa Samson's Quaker Summer in June, Kristin Billerbeck's Split Ends in July, and Sharon Hinck's The Restorer in August.

Another plus: local bookstores did report increased sales of each book during the month it was highlighted. And I believe we did introduce some people to Cannoli Caffee who might not otherwise have made their way there.


So, what's next?

Well, the Book Reviews--the actual physical discussions--are on hiatus for now.

Our agreement with Cannoli Caffe has come to an end, so we've sat back and taken a look at where we should go now with Cindy's Book Club.

First of all, we knew that we wouldn't have time to devote to the Book Club during the month of September, because all our energies are focused on our annual fundraising Sharathon (which takes place September 25, 26 and 27).

After careful discussion, we've decided to shelve the actual physical discussions for now. After the first of the year, in January 2008, we'll re-evaluate that decision.

But for now, I will continue Cindy's Book Club here on this blog, and we'll also mention it on the air from time to time. In September I'll have a new selection. I'll include sound bites from author interviews, and I'll let the bookstores know to make sure they're carrying the book. I hope those of you that are interested will make frequent stops here at the blog, and that you'll comment on your reactions to the books that are featured.

Thanks to everyone who made Cindy's Book Club so special...and a big thanks to Cannoli Caffe for being such wonderful hosts!

Look for my September selection within the next several days!

Time is running out to sign up for the Book Review!

Just a reminder that tomorrow (Thursday, August 23rd) is the last day to sign up for the August Book Review for Cindy's Book Club!

If you haven't done so already, please head over to the Cannoli Caffe on Bell School Road across from the Golf Shack and sign up to win your seat the Book Review!

I'll be drawing names either this afternoon or tomorrow, and phoning the people who won.

The Book Review will be held next Monday, August 27th at 6 PM at the Cannoli Caffe! Hope to see you there!