Every reading group in the city is doing the same twelve contemporary novels; this one deliberately goes after the nineteenth-century books that fell out of print and stayed there. Mandylion Press, a small independent publisher, facilitates, so the conversation is run by people who actually work on the texts. If you want a free evening among readers who have done the reading, in a bookshop rather than a bar, this is a good use of it.
What to expect
A small group discussion in the event area of a bookshop, seated in a circle rather than lectured at from a podium. Expect to be invited to contribute rather than just listen, and expect people who have genuinely done the reading. The store stays open around the meeting, so you can browse the shelves before it starts.
Good to know
- McNally Jackson Downtown Brooklyn is at 445 Albee Square West inside City Point
- Take the B/D/N/Q/R to DeKalb Avenue or the A/C/F to Jay St-MetroTech
- RSVP is required, and attendance is capped by the size of the event space
- Read the selected text beforehand if you want to take part rather than observe
- The DeKalb Market Hall food court downstairs is convenient for eating first
- City Point is fully step-free and elevator accessible
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Common questions
Do I need to have read the book?
It is a discussion group, so you will get far more out of it having read the selection, though newcomers are generally welcome.
Is it free?
Yes — it is free to attend with an RSVP through the bookstore's event page.
Who runs it?
Mandylion Press, an independent publisher, facilitates the club in partnership with the bookstore.
