Book club: Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

It's been a long long time since I posted about book club, hasn't it? Truth is, with Handyman Tim's work schedule, I've only been able to attend one meeting since I hosted last August! That is definitely something I'm working on changing since I enjoy this monthly get together so much. 

It just so happens that April was my turn to host. I ended up co-hosting with the  March hostess because March got postponed due to spring break schedules. We talked about both of our book selections. (Mine was "Goodnight Nobody" by Jennifer Weimer and I'm not even going to dignify it with a review. I chose it because it had been sitting on my shelf for 4+ years and I thought this would be a good excuse to finally read it. Turns out, there was a reason it had been sitting there so long!)

So on to the other choice instead. Jodie's selection of "Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet" by Jamie Ford was so wonderful. I am predisposed to liking this book since I love historical fiction, but even if you don't, this is a wonderful love story. True to it's name, the plot is bittersweet. 

Before reading this book, I was aware of the Japanese Internment Camps we had here on US soil during World War II. While the book didn't quite delve into what life was like within the camps themselves, it gave a peek into the lives of the families that were sent there. One particular scene describes how the fearful Japanese families living in Seattle chose to burn their  priceless mementos (family/wedding photographs in particular) in order to protect themselves from scrutiny. This broke my heart and had me in tears.

I don't want to describe the scene too much or give away any details, but the thought of being put into a situation where I'd willingly choose to burn or destroy my family photographs hit me in such a tender place. All this time I've spent on my photography and preserving my precious family memories, just to wipe that all away. I can't even imagine. The book covers so much more, but I just couldn't get past that one element.

I'd highly recommend this book. It is weighty enough without feeling overly heavy or depressing--something I've been oddly sensitive to in the last year. I'm looking to enjoy my reading experience, not feel like I've been beaten by a stick!

And back by popular demand, I'm going to be sharing a few recipes this week. What is book club without yummy appetizers?! I'll also be sharing our Easter holiday menu. I definitely found some winners over the last few days and can't wait to post them.