What we are reading

About this club: Formed in the mid-1980s, the club has about 25 members. They meet in members' homes and choose books four or five at a time based on recommendations. Favorite titles over the years include: "The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein; "Sarah's Key" by Tatiana de Rosnay; "Shanghai Girls" by Lisa See; "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett; "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen; and "Loving Frank" by Nancy Horan. "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle" by David Wroblewski was a memorable flop. The club recently enjoyed a visit by Gerrie Ferris Finger, author of the mystery "The End Game."

Recently read: "The Wives of Henry Oades" by Johanna Moran.

What it's about: This novel is based on a true story, a 19th-century bigamy case in California. Said Eichler: "It's the story of Henry, who believes his wife and children died in a New Zealand native tribe attack. He restarts his life in America and remarries. Six years later, after escaping from their captors, his wife and children track him down and are shocked to find him living a new life with a new family. They form a blended family of sorts, but they are brought to trial for bigamy."

What members thought: "This is a story about good people caught in heartbreaking circumstances, and a community that chooses to judge rather than to understand," Eichler said. "The story is told mainly from the wives' perspectives on their unusual predicament, and both emerge as the pillars of strength upon which others rely. ... The bond between these women forms the core of the novel. ... Henry needed more development. He seemed passive and weak."

Next assignment: "The Last Wife of Henry VIII" by Carolly Erickson

Tell us what your club is reading. Contact Patti Ghezzi at ajcbookclubs@yahoo.com