LITERATURE FOR LUNCH DISCUSSES BOOKS ON AFRICAN LIFE

Books that present historical and contemporary views of African life will be discussed during upcoming sessions of Literature for Lunch, a monthly book discussion supported by the Boise State University English department.

The series, open and free to the public, kicks off on Friday, Jan. 26, with a discussion of “Sacred Hunger” by Barry Unsworth. The group meets at 12:10-1 p.m. at the WCA, 720 W. Washington.

Unsworth’s novel is a gripping story of a slave ship builder in Liverpool in the 18th century, and the slave trade off the coast of West Africa and in the southern United States. Winner of the Booker Prize, it explores race, gender and the rise of capitalism.

Upcoming books include “Maru” by Bessie Head on Feb. 23, “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver on March 21 and “The Joys of Motherhood” by Buchi Emecheta on April 25. Books are ordered through the Vista Book Gallery, 890 S. Vista Ave. in the Vista Village shopping center, and a discount is given to group members for all selections except “Maru.” Books are also available at discount at the BSU Bookstore.

Over the past 20 years, Literature for Lunch has discussed some 175 books, and attracted hundreds of book readers ranging from in age from 20 to 80-plus. As many as 50 people show up for monthly meetings, and the current mailing list tops 300. While group members have come and gone, there are a few who span the group’s entire 20-year-history.

For more information, contact Boise State English professor Carol Martin at 426-1179 or email her at cmartin@boisestate.edu.

Contact:
Christy Van Winkle
Student Programs Board
426-3874