BOOK CLUB NEWS
JUNE 17, 2016
RICHARD BASS, COORDINATOR
Cell: 323-533-3550
[email protected]
The Sleepwalker’s Guide to Dancing, by Mira Jacob
Discussion Leader: Don Markley
Don began by sharing that it was Ann who originally nominated
this title and he was “roped” into taking on the discussion;
nevertheless, he was very glad he was because he found the
book personally engaging and rewarding. He then focused
briefly on the author, reminding readers about the interview
with her at the end of the book. Googling the author, I came
upon deeply personal article Mira Jacob wrote in Vogue that
compels both in style and content:
http://www.vogue.com/946502/arranged-marriage-that-ended-happily-ever-after-30-yearslater/.
Don expertly led a unique discussion: because he began with the meaning of the title,
discussion became almost self-directed with readers reflecting on the the Eapen family’s rich
and complicated dynamics. He began with the title, word by word. Is sleepwalking a metaphor
for what takes place in the book? There are over 80 known types of sleepwalking. Although
symptoms of sleepwalking are documented, research is vague, mostly anecdotal, mostly
occurring in children. Even though sleepwalking literally appears in the story, are the main
characters all sleepwalking? Are the main characters dancing around without connecting with
one another? Is Amina doing the photographer dance? Is Kamala doing the cooking dance?
What is Thomas Eapen’s dance? Who is guiding? Is this story of the Eapen family the guide? Is
this a cautionary tale? Is this close-knit family unusual or fairly common with its dysfunction,
love, and humor? Explain the fine line between humor and sadness. What is the significance of
the hide-a-key, the jacket and other objects that featured prominently? How does Amina feel
about her brother’s dying? Did he take his own life? What is the significance of Amina being a
photographer, of her subjects? Did she have a good eye for the truth?
Readers expressed their pleasure in reading this “guide.” (What follows is a paraphrase of
readers in the first person): It was a different read, one in which I was concerned about the
characters and the family. It was reassuring in a way that my family wasn’t that bad. The book
club permits me to read something I wouldn’t have read. Even though the book was not a page
turner, it was a poetic read with some beautiful prose. The family story holds broad appeal. If I
were to peruse the titles on the library’s New Fiction shelf, this one would attract my attention
to pick up. Although there was tragedy, the story was not depressing. The book was
fascinating, holding my interest from beginning to the end at just under 500 pages. Great
insights; great discussion. I found the book enchanting: I laughed and cried. The book was well
constructed; the mix-up of time worked. I enjoyed the mother serving the food all the time.
One last question: how can the story of the Eapen family suffer tragedy while the reader
doesn’t find it depressing? After reading Mira Jacob’s article in Vogue, we find one answer: her
love for the characters. Thank you, Don, for guiding reflection on the Eapen family that
ultimately extols family in general. After a summer hiatus, Don joins us again September 16,
2016, when he leads the discussion of The Race to Paris, by Meg Waite Clayton. Stay cool
reading!