December 7, 2017, 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
United Hebrew Congregation
13788 Conway Road
St. Louis, MO 63141
Spielberg Chapel
Join us for a discussion of the book The Velvet Hours by Alyson Richman. From the international bestselling author of The Lost Wife and The Garden of Letters, comes a story of two women pursuing freedom and independence in Paris during WWII. Inspired by the true account of an abandoned Parisian apartment, Alyson Richman brings to life Solange, the young woman forced to leave her fabled grandmother’s legacy behind to save all that she loved.
As Paris teeters on the edge of the German occupation, a young French woman closes the door to her late grandmother’s treasure-filled apartment, unsure if she’ll ever return. An elusive courtesan, Marthe de Florian cultivated a life of art and beauty, casting out all recollections of her impoverished childhood in the dark alleys of Montmartre. With Europe on the brink of war, she shares her story with her granddaughter Solange Beaugiron, using her prized possessions to reveal her innermost secrets. Most striking of all are a beautiful string of pearls and a magnificent portrait of Marthe painted by the Italian artist Giovanni Boldini. As Marthe’s tale unfolds, like velvet itself, stitched with its own shadow and light, it helps to guide Solange on her own path.
(Synopsis from Amazon.com)
You can join us for just one session if you like a particular book or come to all of the sessions. There is no long-term commitment necessary. RSVP to Angie so we know how many people to expect.
Upcoming Books
January 4: Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
February 1: The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
March 1: Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith by John Krakow
April 5: The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
May 3: The Plot Against America by Philip Roth
June 7: Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue