The East End Book Club met last week at Sarah G's house on Friday night. The turnout was on the low side, with illnesses, birthday celebrations, and even forgetfulness perhaps generated by concussion (sorry Lorraine, had to say it! :)
The food and drink choices had some obvious connections to the book - tostadas (fried plantain) from Steph, pastelitos de carne (meat pastries), and some alcoholic drinks. Despite joking about bringing a plate of hard drugs, Anna instead went the more legal and sensible choice of homemade macaroons (drug-free as far as we know).
The book discussion was detailed and varied. Reactions ranged from "uncomfortable read" to "amazing read". Topics under discussion were the narrative voices (who was the narrator of each story?), whether or not the book was ultimately depressing or hopeful, the positive and negative character traits of the various characters, the theme of forgiveness, and role of misogyny in the book.
An interesting New York Times Article looks at the role of sexism in Diaz's other writings and may put the questions of his intentions to rest. But really, was Yunior the narrator of most of the stories? Who was the drug dealer, and who was Aurora's "boyfriend"? The jury's is out.
Looking forward to the next meeting - November 25 at Sarah McQ's house. Time and address will be emailed out. The next book is Chappy by Patricia Grace.
