Book Discussion Crasher!

I have been a book discussion facilitator for many years, and I prepare for each discussion in the same manner; I read the book, prepare discussion questions, locate biographical information about the author and buy refreshments. Unbeknownst to me this past April 2nd Page Turners book discussion would be one to remember.

A few minutes before the book discussion was scheduled to begin I noticed two new members in the crowd, a man and a woman. The man approached me and politely asked if he and his wife could participate in the discussion; I replied “of course.” He then introduced himself as Robert Kurson the author of the book we were just about to discuss. Surprise, shock and fear were all pulsating through my veins and then a terrifying thought; how was I supposed to facilitate a book discussion with the author in the room? After I regained my composure; Mr. Kurson’s warm and friendly manner quickly became apparent. He was able to put myself and the group at ease and we went on to have a wonderful discussion about his book Crashing Through: a true story of risk, adventure, and the man who dared to see. Robert and his wife greatly enriched our discussion with their insights into the writing process and offered us tasty bits of information that only the author would know. Mr. Kurson is also the author of the book Shadow Divers: the true adventure of two Americans who risked everything to solve one of the last mysteries of World War II.

The Glenview Public Library offers five different book discussion groups. Give one a try you never know who may show up!