This month, we will be reading Under the Wide and Starry Sky, by Nancy Horan. This is a fictionalized chronicle of the relationship between Robert Louis Stevenson, author of classics including Treasure Island and
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and American divorcee
Fanny Van de Grift Osbourne. Summary from Booklist:
"Horan’s spectacular second novel (following book-club favorite Loving Frank, 2007) has been worth the wait. Brimming with the same artistic verve that drives her complicated protagonists, it follows the loving, tumultuous partnership of Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson and his Indiana-born wife, Fanny Osbourne. Fanny, an aspiring artist still tied to her unfaithful first husband when they meet in 1875, is fiery, courageous, and the mother of two living children. Louis, a younger man whose frailty belies a joyous, energetic spirit, dreams of writing full-time. While he perfects his craft, she becomes his protector and editor-collaborator, accompanying him across Europe and America and finally to Samoa in hopes of healing his weak lungs. This is more than just another novel designed to honor the unsung accomplishments of a famous man’s spouse, though. Equally adventurous and colorful, Louis and Fanny could each command the story singlehandedly. Together, they are riveting and insightfully envisioned, including through moving depiction of how their relationship transforms over time. Horan also explores relevant social concerns, such as cultural imperialism and xenophobia, and how Stevenson’s life influenced his literary themes. An exhilarating epic about a free-spirited couple who traveled the world yet found home only in one another."Dates have not changed, but responsibilities have changed in the book group schedule. Lisa and Kim have swapped schedules, and Denise and Rachel have swapped as well. New schedules will appear at our next meeting.
Our next meeting is on April 22, 2016 -- it is our 16th Anniversary! Sheila will bring food, Mae will bring books, and Fran will facilitate the discussion.
