June's book was Sara's pick and she chose Rooftops of Tehran by Mahbod Seraji. The overall consensus about this book was that it left us wanting more....and there are rumors of a sequel in the works. So, if Mr. Seraji happens to read this...please give us an update!
As for the book review, Rina actually wrote a review on GoodReads.com that I'm just going to steal:
"I
loved this book! I don't normally like the "peek into this culture you
don't really know" kind of stories, so I was hesitant at first.
However, it was so much more than that. It had everything I could ask
for - humor (I actually laughed out loud a couple times), action,
heartache, love, depth, honest characters, and, yes, a peek into a
culture I didn't really know.
The way it was written was also perfect for me. As this was a book club selection, there is always the challenge of catching my interest when I start reading that isn't there for a book I naturally pick up. From the first page, the writing and story brought me in. The back-and-forth through different points in time were woven together so well it was not at all confusing. The writing was simple and easy to follow without being simplistic. The writing flowed so smoothly it felt poetic in a lot of places.
It also gave me a lot to think about. About governance and what kinds of things our governments are really up to at home and abroad. About friendship and if I would be willing to take the kinds of risks they did for one another. About love, religion, and so much more...
My ONLY gripe about this book is that I am dying to know what happens next. I think the story completed its arc and ended where it should have ended. I know some people like to leave things to the imagination, but I need to read it. I need to know where these perfectly developed, honestly portrayed characters go next. The reading guide in the back of my copy said Mahbod Seraji was going to get around to writing a sequel. I cannot express how strongly I hope that is true."
The way it was written was also perfect for me. As this was a book club selection, there is always the challenge of catching my interest when I start reading that isn't there for a book I naturally pick up. From the first page, the writing and story brought me in. The back-and-forth through different points in time were woven together so well it was not at all confusing. The writing was simple and easy to follow without being simplistic. The writing flowed so smoothly it felt poetic in a lot of places.
It also gave me a lot to think about. About governance and what kinds of things our governments are really up to at home and abroad. About friendship and if I would be willing to take the kinds of risks they did for one another. About love, religion, and so much more...
My ONLY gripe about this book is that I am dying to know what happens next. I think the story completed its arc and ended where it should have ended. I know some people like to leave things to the imagination, but I need to read it. I need to know where these perfectly developed, honestly portrayed characters go next. The reading guide in the back of my copy said Mahbod Seraji was going to get around to writing a sequel. I cannot express how strongly I hope that is true."
Thank you, Rina!! Sara hosted this month's book at her home, and her lentil tacos were such a hit everyone wanted the recipe :-) Plus, Carrie joined us for the first time since the birth of her son, Xavier...welcome back Carrie!
Hope everyone is enjoying their summer. For July, we will read and discuss the Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka and pick our books for August, September, and October. Stay tuned!
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