More than three years ago, I wrote the following words in a blog about PTFW’s Book Club: “Book clubs are the best! Small or large, in-person or virtual, fiction or nonfiction…it doesn’t matter! When women get together it’s always fun. But when they gather to discuss a great read, especially over a delicious meal and a glass of wine, the experience is magical.”

Like most women—or really, like all people—I continue to evolve and grow. Even my view of book clubs has shifted. They’re even better than I originally claimed. Book clubs become truly extraordinary when women, after years of gathering to discuss stories, form long-term, meaningful friendships that stretch far beyond the monthly meetings. With the help of great literature, these communities empower women to share opinions openly and explore diverse perspectives with honesty, curiosity, and passion.

Recently, the Prime Time for Women Book Club met to discuss James: A Novel by Percival Everett. We gathered at the 19th Hole Restaurant, owned by Carolyne Crosby—an extraordinary chef who infuses African culture into many of her signature dishes. Before enjoying the scrumptious buffet Chef Crosby prepared, we launched into a lively conversation about James.

Although James is often described as a “reimagining of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn told from Jim’s point of view,” Everett has said his book seeks to address Twain’s failure to fully represent the humanity of enslaved people. Our members explored this theme with eloquence and intensity, offering empathy, insight, and strong opinions. We compared the two books, noting that Huckleberry Finn is a coming-of-age adventure story, while James is a blood-soaked historical novel, which sometimes reads like a horror story. I love when a book sparks debate, passionate dialogue, opportunities to learn and grow, and truly meaningful conversation. That’s exactly what happened at the 19th Hole Restaurant earlier this week.

Next month, on Tuesday, December 16, our members will gather for the Annual Book Club Extravaganza! What’s that, you ask? You don’t know? Let me fill you in! Every December, in place of our regular meeting, PTFW hosts this festive gathering. Members celebrate the upcoming holidays, share a potluck meal, participate in a book exchange, and—most importantly—choose the books for the upcoming year.

While the food warms and the wine chills, members take turns pitching a favorite title for the club to read. Recommendations span every genre—nonfiction, romance, historical fiction, fantasy—you name it. So many great books, and so little time to read! Over dinner, we discuss the suggestions, and during dessert, everyone completes a secret ballot. The eleven books receiving the most votes will become the 2026 PTFW Book Club Reading List.

Sound like fun? Of course it does—because it is! If you’d like to join us, consider becoming a PTFW member and send us a message through the contact page on our website.