September was a busy and exciting month for Novel Pairings, kicking off the fall season on a high note!
Let’s recap September:
“What makes a book a modern classic” Seminar: In this seminar, we examined the criteria that elevated a contemporary book to classic status, including the duration of its celebration and the validity of marketing terms like "instant classic" and "future classic." Additionally, participants had the opportunity to share their personal favorites among modern classics, instant classics, and future classics.
As a community, we read The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro and had a robust discussion in Discord and at book club.
154. Moody & Atmospheric Fall 2024 Book Releases with Backlist Pairings: We released a new episode on the main feed, highlighting anticipated fall books for 2024. We put together a selection of exciting new releases alongside cherished backlist titles and classics. Our collection offers something for everyone, spanning a variety of genres including historical fiction, gothic tales, coming-of-age stories, and fantasy.
Launch of New Series - Classics We Love and Loathe: In this new series, we’re diving into classics that inspire both love and loathing, featuring engaging conversations with special guests about contemporary literature. Our first episode with Chelsey released a few weeks ago, and we’d love for you to listen and share your thoughts—these exclusive episodes will be available only on our Patreon feed this fall!
What to Expect in October
Frankenstein
In October, we will explore Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Although we have previously aired episodes on this classic work, we haven't had the opportunity to engage in a discussion with our Patreon community. This pivotal text delves into themes of creation and responsibility, making it ideal for sparking engaging conversations. We’ll discuss it at our book club on Wednesday, October 30th at 7 PM ET.
Gothic Novels Seminar
Looking ahead to October, we'll host a seminar on Gothic novels on Wednesday, October 16 at 7 PM ET. The Gothic Novel is one of the most enduring genres of fiction, and one that has only regained popularity in recent years. In this seminar, we will outline the common themes, tropes, and plot devices of Gothic Novels and consider why these texts remain popular and have experienced a resurgence. Additionally, we will discuss favorite Gothic tropes and novels to build our own autumnal TBRs. During Chelsey’s maternity leave, classes will be replaced with seminars, a discussion-based, book club-style meet-up that will not be recorded. This is just temporary until Chelsey and Sara return to recorded webinars this winter.
Looking Ahead
As we approach November, we will enjoy Dodie Smith’s I Capture the Castle. This enchanting novel whisks readers away to a dilapidated castle nestled in the British countryside, narrated by a witty and bookish protagonist. It serves as a delightful escape and a charming way to ease into the year's end.
We hope to see you around Patreon this month, we’re excited for the discussions ahead! Until then, we declare after all, there is no enjoyment like reading. How much sooner one tires of anything than of a book!
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