By Jeffrey Catalano
Assistant Editor
On Wednesday, January 7, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Congregation Etz Chaim will be hosting its new monthly event, “Food for Thought Book & Film Club.” This event is open to all curious individuals, food lovers and story enthusiasts. Whether you’re a bookworm, cinephile, foodie or just someone who loves some good company, this fun new club at Congregation Etz Chaim is for you!
Each month, either a book or a movie is chosen for a thorough, eye-opening discussion. Some books and movies may have a Jewish tie-in, but the focus will mainly be on processing mainstream content through a unique Jewish lens. A book that’s chosen can be just about any genre or category, whether it’s a work of fiction, a memoir or a nonfiction title.
A movie that’s screened might be a cinema classic, an independent film, a drama or even a comedy. If a book is selected, there will be a themed discussion at the event. If it’s a movie, the film’s story, style and substance will be analyzed by all of the attendees.
The one constant of “Food for Thought Book & Film Club” is a nice selection of delicious food, provided in a warm and inviting atmosphere. And one of the fun parts about the food is that it ties into the singular theme of each event! Light dinner and/or snacks mentioned in a book or seen in a movie will be served at each event. The food provided promises to be both delicious and nutritious!
The subject of January’s “Food For Thought” will be Erma Bombeck’s popular book, “If Life Is a Bowl of Cherries, What Am I Doing in the Pits?” First published in 1978, Bombeck’s humorous book of stories, which highlights her signature wit, explores the absurdities and challenges of everyday life.
Some of the topics Bombeck explores in her book include marriage, family and other commonplace domestic subjects. The title of Bombeck’s book alone is her sly way of taking a jab how reality is far less sweet and glamorous than we often want it to be.
A long-time favorite with readers and critics alike, a discussion of “If Life Is a Bowl of Cherries, What Am I Doing in the Pits?” will certainly make for a great book club-like experience for anyone who attends this next segment of “Food For Thought.” This ongoing event welcomes donations and an RSVP is required to attend.
