Book Club: An American Marriage

Book reviewer: Denise Drabkin

Exchange ideas, participate in engaging discussions, and connect with community members at our Book Club! Even if you haven’t read the books, you are welcome to join us for the stimulating reviews, the opportunity to discover new authors and titles… and the coffee and bagels! To receive this year’s reading list and Book Club dates, please email lisar@mnjcc.org.
An American Marriage
by New York Times best-selling author Tayari Jones
Thursday March 26
11:00am-1:00pm

Admission: $10

For registration assistance, please call 416-924-6211 x0 or email help@mnjcc.org

Presented in partnership with the Bernard Betel Centre.

Newlyweds Celestial and Roy are the embodiment of both the American Dream and the New South. He is a young executive, and she is an artist on the brink of an exciting career. But as they settle into the routine of their life together, they are ripped apart by circumstances neither could have imagined. Roy is arrested and sentenced to twelve years for a crime Celestial knows he didn’t commit. Though fiercely independent, Celestial finds herself bereft and unmoored, taking comfort in Andre, her childhood friend, and best man at their wedding. As Roy’s time in prison passes, she is unable to hold on to the love that has been her center. After five years, Roy’s conviction is suddenly overturned, and he returns to Atlanta ready to resume their life together. New York Times best-selling author Tayari Jones’ moving portrayal of the effects of a wrongful conviction on a young African-American couple, and examination of the human impact of judicial complacency, institutional racism, and social prejudice.

Book reviewer and MNjcc Lay Leader Denise Drabkin is a retired library manager who thoroughly enjoyed a 40-year career in public libraries. Denise worked in three different library systems on two continents, including the Toronto Public Library, and is a firm believer in libraries as the great levellers on the playing field of life. Denise, a long-time member of our Book Club, carefully curates each season, offering a balance of books that are meaningful, timely, provocative and inclusive. Previous titles have included: The Promise; The Island of Sea Women; The Company We Keep; The Tunnel and House on Endless Waters. We are delighted to welcome Denise back this season! To receive this year’s reading list and Book Club dates, please email lisar@mnjcc.org.

The Bernard Betel Centre is a vibrant, non-profit community centre located in North Toronto with offerings for older adults (55+). We provide services and programs to over 5,000 individuals each year, including fitness, recreation, trips and travel, special events, community support services, health and wellness, volunteer opportunities, and many more. For more information, please visit: https://betelcentre.org/