Annie Condon is the convenor of

With the cold nights upon us it seems book groups are clustering in homes with wine, cheese and some fabulous books.

The Light Between Oceans by M L Stedman seems to be a popular pick – set in 1918 it has a remote lighthouse as its setting, and a great moral dilemma to get readers talking. The couple who live at the lighthouse experience two miscarriages and a stillbirth, and when a boat washes up on shore with a dead man and a living baby the woman, Isabel, claims the baby as her own. But when they return to the mainland two years later, they must face some uncomfortable truths.

Another book that seems to have become popular from word of mouth is The Dinner by Herman Koch. This is the kind of book that’s great for mixed gender book groups. Two couples (the men are brothers) go out for a meal – innocent enough you think? However, the two families have something to discuss – the transgression of their respective teenage sons. This is a disconcerting and intellectually clever book with unexpected turns. Lots of discussion points.

Big Brother by Lionel Shriver is also being chosen by book groups. A novel that examines obesity, our diet and ‘foodie’ culture, and the responsibilities of sibling relationships makes for good conversation and probably some friendly dissent!

And if you like your book group with a touch of art and feminism, try The Woman Upstairs by Claire Messud. A fascinating novel about what needs to be sacrificed for family, for art and for friendship. This conversation may go all the way into the night.

We have vacancies in our Contemporary Book Clubs, commencing in August on Tuesday 13 August, Wednesday 14 August and Thursday 15 August. All sessions start at 6.30pm – 8pm and take place at the Readings Head Office on Drummond Street, Carlton. The first book for discussion is

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