One local book club has blossomed into something far more profound than just a gathering to discuss literature. It’s a space where friendships are forged, perspectives are shared, and a monthly tradition brings joy and a sense of community to its members.
On August 12, 2025, at Orchid in Statesboro, Georgia, an engaging group of women gathered to review ‘The Great Alone’ by Kristin Hannah. The afternoon was about more than discussing a novel, though. It was about continuing a tradition that started with a simple idea and has grown into something far beyond the pages of any book.
“In a world increasingly filled with screens and schedules, there’s a quiet revolution happening once a month. Over lunch, laughter, and literature, this book club has become a place of connection, friendship, and discovery,” shared member Lynn Deal Futch.
The club began modestly when Marsha Deal decided it was time to stop driving at night. “I thought, why not start a lunch club?” she recalls. “No homes to tidy, no elaborate meals to prepare, just good books, good company, and a rotating schedule of restaurants to keep things fresh.”
Food for one of the group meetings | Photo Courtesy Lynn Deal Futch
What started with Marsha Deal, Cathy Spacher, Armenda Barnes, and Liz Underwood soon grew to include Lynn Deal Futch, Linda Hube, Autumn Redmond, and Janice Rushing.
“Even though we didn’t all know each other in the beginning,” Marsha says, “it just clicked.”
The group keeps things simple: each month, a different member chooses both the book and the restaurant, moving in alphabetical order by first name. That system has kept the meetings fresh while also nudging members to explore new genres.
“I’ve read books I would never have chosen on my own,” Underwood admits. “And I’ve discovered new authors I would never have found otherwise.”
For Lynn, the magic goes beyond the reading. “We all have different personalities and different things going on in our lives, but we mesh fine,” said Futch. “The meetings are more than just book talk; they are a space to connect, unwind, and explore new perspectives. They’ve allowed us to get to know people we didn’t know before.”
Sometimes the fun takes a creative turn. When the group read The Whip by Karen Kondazian, Armenda brought cowboy hats for everyone. During West With Giraffes, Marsha gave each member a tiny giraffe figurine. Once, they welcomed guest author William Rawlings Jr., a resident of Sandersville, known for his Southern stories who shared insights from his novel The Rutherford Cipher.
The discussion came alive as members asked questions about his experiences as a writer.
Cowboy hats for the book ‘The Whip’ at Uncle Shug’s; Pictured in front: Marsha Deal, Armenda Barnes; Back: Lynn Deal Futch, Cathy Spacher, Liz Underwood (the original group!) | Photo Courtesy of Lynn Deal Futch
The group agrees that its smaller size keeps things meaningful. “Large groups make it harder to connect,” says Linda Hube. “Here, everyone has a chance to talk.” Janice Rushing adds, “I like that it’s not just answering stock questions; we have real discussion.”
While the books are important, the friendships matter most. Autumn Redmond puts it this way: “It’s fun and interesting to hear other people’s perspectives about books and characters. If anyone needs that little push to start reading regularly, I highly recommend joining a book club.”
The recipe for a successful book club? According to Cathy Spacher:
Gather interesting people who love to read.
Alternate who chooses the book each month.
Use the library or share copies.
Let the book picker choose the restaurant.
Come ready with thought-provoking questions.
Enjoy each other’s company and HAVE FUN!
Dr. Seuss wisely said: “The more you read, the more things you will know. The more you learn, the more places you’ll go.” This group has proven that those “places” can be shared right around the lunch table.
Liz Underwood summed it up best, “Good company plus good books plus good food equals good times.”
Grab a few friends, a book, and a table, friends. Your next Senior Moment chapter awaits!