What did three teenagers in the 80’s and Agatha Christie share? Is the mystery they solved a murder or also loneliness? Can an author be part of healing?
There’s something wonderfully unique about book clubs. They aren’t just about reading; they’re about shared wonder, collective discovery, and the joy of unraveling a narrative with others. Back in high school, I was part of the smallest and perhaps the most intense club imaginable: just me and two other guys who were not part of the same cliques. Three guys into Metal, Punk, and New Wave discovered an iconic author and each other. We didn’t have formal gatherings or cozy reading nooks, our literary debates unfolded right there in homeroom, between announcements and the bell for lunch.
Discovering Agatha Christie
We became obsessed with Agatha Christie. It started because a copy of “And Then There Were None” was laying on a desk and we grabbed it. We were bored. Homeroom was boring. In a few days all of us had a copy.
It was the beginning and the cornerstone of our homeroom club with no name, and we’d dive eagerly into each one, determined to solve the mystery before Poirot or Miss Marple could unveil the murderer. Every day, we came armed with our carefully scribbled notes notes and theories highlighted and suspects meticulously analyzed. Our debates were spirited, full of excitement and delightful competition. Yet, despite our enthusiasm, we usually ended up marveling at Christie’s clever twists rather than solving the crime.
My Triumph: Evil Under the Sun
There was one glorious exception: “Evil Under the Sun.” I still vividly remember the exhilaration of having solved it correctly. There was a triumphant feeling and a sense of cleverness that rivaled Hercule Poirot’s brilliance, if only for a fleeting moment. I celebrated quietly but enthusiastically, proud that my detective skills had finally paid off…until the next book.
“Murder on the Orient Express,” was a novel whose ending left all three of us stunned. Our minds were blown by a solution as audacious as it was ingenious. We talked about it endlessly for days. We even re read it. We dissected each clue we’d missed, marveling at Christie’s storytelling mastery. It was one of those moments where the surprise was so genuine it etched itself permanently in my memories.
Shared Stories, Shared Bonds
Those mornings in homeroom weren’t just about books, they were about new friendships, about the bonds we formed over fictional mysteries that pierced the isolation we lived in. Through Christie’s pages, we learned more about each other, argued passionately over differing theories, and laughed at our wild guesses. The characters became real to us, and we treated each new book as an exciting event, counting down the hours until our next homeroom.
Good stories have a powerful way of getting us through difficult times. My life wasn’t always easy. There were moments of deep trauma and depression. In those dark periods, stories and music offered an escape, a place to lose myself and find hope. The combination of captivating stories and friends to share the stories witch made homeroom a sanctuary. Our impromptu book club wasn’t a hobby. It was essential healing and escape, providing solace, distraction, and a sense of belonging when I needed it most. Those pages, filled with twists and intrigue and shared with others, offered healing when I needed it most.
Book Clubs for All and a Wish
What’s truly remarkable about book clubs is how diverse they are. There’s something for every reader, no matter your age, income, or demographic or favorite genre. From mystery groups that mirror our homeroom adventures to fantasy clubs exploring epic journeys, historical fiction circles reliving past eras, and even science fiction groups speculating on future worlds and distant galaxies, book clubs embrace everyone.
I’ve met people who found lifelong friendships through their book circles, bonding over poetry, nonfiction, graphic novels, and more. The universal joy of exploring stories together creates connections that cross generations, cultures, and interests.
Looking back, there’s only one thing I’d change about that wonderful semester. I often find myself wishing we could’ve had one more person in the room with us: Agatha Christie herself. Imagine the thrill of discussing the plot directly with her, hearing about the nuances she planted, the red herrings we chased, and the secrets behind her brilliant conclusions. Wouldn’t it be amazing if every book club meeting could include the author, right there beside us, sharing their world?
One can dream.
Making Dreams Come True and an Invitation
Reflecting on my sort of kind of book club days, I felt inspired to offer something unique. I’ve created a special Book Club Perk for my upcoming novel, Hearts of Glass Living in the Real World, available now on Indiegogo. This special perk includes physical copies of the book for club members, bookmarks, limited edition prints, and a delightful mystery perk. You’ll also receive a free ebook to share with fellow club members.
But the true beauty of this perk is the opportunity to interact directly with me…the author. I’ll join your club virtually for three meetings, answering questions and engaging in deep discussions about the novel. We’ll unpack characters, explore plotlines, and reveal hidden details together. If you live in the Chicagoland Metro Area, I will attend at least one of your meetings in person.
This perk was inspired by my belief that book clubs are about healing, community and connection. Hearts of Glass is about three misfits finding each other and discovering they’re no longer alone in fighting the battles they fight for survival, freedom, safety, and a chance in this life. When we find each other, loneliness fades.
Join me in celebrating the power of connection through stories. Visit the Indiegogo campaign and choose the Book Club Perk here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/be-part-of-the-hearts-of-glass-story-and-mission/x/38415051#/. When we find each other through stories, we’re never alone. I can’t wait to join your club.
I have 9 book club perks left and the campaign ends in 18 days.
Stay Totally Awesome!
Stay True to You!
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