York

W- Biography Reading Group

PRIVATE LIVES MADE PUBLIC: THE PLEASURES AND SURPRISES OF BIOGRAPHY

** Spaces for new members **

If you are interested in personal stories and achievements of people, and the historical and social milieux in which they lived, you might like to join this small friendly group to read and discuss a variety of biographies, autobiographies and memoirs, chosen by members.

The book chosen for 8th March is 'Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China' by Jung Chang. Combining the intimacy of memoir with the epic sweep of a great novel, 'Wild Swans' tells the story of three women: Chung Chang, her mother and her grandmother who are buffeted by the changing times of twentieth century China. Beautifully and lovingly written, this book is a fascinating read.

The book chosen for 10 May is 'Rosalind Franklin: The Dark Lady of DNA' by Brenda Maddox, an impressive account of a major event in the history of science after WW2 highlighting the intrigue and airbrushing of Rosalind Franklin's important contribution out of scientific history.

With current restrictions, lockdowns, etc the group has both exchanged comments on the chosen book by email, or written and posted (if no email). This has worked very well and the original group has all kept together and enjoyed reading the comments of the rest of the group on the set date.

I am happy to start another Group II to work alongside the original group, and in these dark winter days, with the need to keep at home and keep safe, this course would suit people who are housebound or prefer not to venture out at the moment. I should be happy to answer any queries by telephone or email.

To send an email to group leader, click on pigeon on right hand side