It can be daunting to face that stack of books waiting on your nightstand or select a novel from the sea of titles at the store. But with book clubs all around the Lake Minnetonka area, and businesses like The Marsh and The Bookcase right out your door, there’s no need to fret. Whether you’re looking to join a group or just in search of inspiration, check out these clubs and embrace your inner worm.
The Lakeshore Literati
The 15 women—and growing—who make up the Lakeshore Literati in the Cottagewood neighborhood of Deephaven have a few things in common. With young children at home and a desire to connect with other local moms, they gather once a month to share a good book, conversation and, of course, a glass of wine. “We’re an eclectic mix of women, so when we come together, everyone has a different perspective,” says club member Elizabeth Hopfenspirger. But it is helpful to have a common thread running through the group, she adds.
The Literati, which has been meeting for a couple of years at various members’ homes, reads a variety of books ranging from popular titles like The Hunger Games to more local selections or non-traditional reads. And they often try to find creative ways to liven up the discussion, whether it’s going to a movie-version after reading a book or setting up an interview session with a local author.
Book picks: The Orchard: A Memoir by local author Theresa Weir, The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern
The Original Book Club
The Bookcase in Wayzata is home to a long-standing book club. Addie Ingebrand, who’s been leading the discussions for the past 19 years, is quick to point out what’s unique about their club: “It’s not held in someone’s home, so there’s no pressure,” she says. There’s no obligation to clean or bake, and since no one knows anyone else’s background, members are free to set their “baggage” aside and express themselves, explains Ingebrand. In fact, over the years, friendships have blossomed and members often meet for lunch before a meeting.
The Bookcase also offers a unique service for local book clubs looking for a little inspiration or direction. The shop’s sales manager Debbie Cohn gives presentations at the store to individual clubs, highlighting a handful of books that are discussion-worthy to help get a new group started or an old group back on track. “We’ve had some groups plan their whole year,” she says.
Book club meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at 1 and 7 p.m., and they’re always accepting new members—just walk in. Check out their website for more information and to see their upcoming book list and events.
Book picks: The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka, Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson
Let’s Talk Books
For the past 16 years, Lorraine Kent has been leading book club discussions at The Marsh in Minnetonka. Although they focus mostly on historical fiction, biographies and memoirs, since that’s what the group prefers, Kent is sure to mix it up on occasion by inviting a guest author or asking members for their “reader’s choice,” a short discussion of books not on their list.
Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. and the third Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. And you don’t need to be a Marsh member to attend the book club meetings—anyone is welcome to drop in. Check out their website for a list of upcoming book picks, then swing by The Marsh to pick up your copy.
Book picks: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot, The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
