What we’re about
At Women Authors Book Club Philly, we are a community of book lovers who are passionate about reading and discussing books by women authors. All genders are welcome to participate! Our group enjoys diving deep into the themes, characters, and writing styles of the books we read. Whether you're into fiction, non-fiction, or memoir, there's a place for you in our group. Join us for lively discussions, meaningful insights, and a supportive community of fellow bookworms. Let's celebrate women authors and their wonderful contributions to literature together.
Our club chooses titles on a rotating basis by authors from the 19th century (and earlier), 20th century, and 21st century, so both classic and modern books can have their day. Members who attend meetings can vote on upcoming titles.
We meet on Saturday afternoons at Higher Grounds Cafe in Northern Liberties. Hope to see you there!
Upcoming events (2)
See all- Book Discussion: Butter by Asako YuzukiHigher Grounds, Philadelphia, PA
Our April book discussion will be on Butter by Asako Yuzuki, a Japanese author writing in 2017. Per Goodreads:
The cult bestseller about a female serial killer and the journalist intent on cracking her case. Gourmet cook Manako Kajii sits in Tokyo Detention Center convicted of the serial murders of lonely businessmen, who she is said to have seduced with her delicious home cooking. Journalist Rika Machida writes asking for a recipe and Kajii can’t resist writing back. As visits unfold between Rika and Kajii, Rika hopes their gastronomic exchange will help her soften Kajii but it seems that she might be the one changing. Inspired by the real case of the convicted con woman, "The Konkatsu Killer," Butter is a vivid, unsettling exploration of misogyny, obsession, romance and the transgressive pleasures of food.
Possible discussion questions include:
- Who were your favorite and least favorite characters? Why did these characters elicit strong emotional responses in you?
- Did you relate to Rika’s or Manako Kajii’s relationship with food? What resonated with you about the way these characters regard culinary arts?
- Do you agree or disagree with how Rika communicated with Kajii? What would you have done differently or similarly, and why?
- The novel explores how childhood meals shape an individual’s relationship with food. How do your childhood memories of food and cooking compare and contrast to the characters’ memories?
- How did you respond to the media’s representation of her character? What is the media’s role in shaping public opinion and personal identity in the book?
- What do you think the idea of Butter represents? How does food play a parallel to Manako Kaji's worldview?
- What was your favorite food depiction in the book?
- In what ways does the book challenge or reinforce traditional perceptions of femininity and womanhood?
- How does the author use food as a metaphor for identity and connection in the story?
- The characters in Butter often face moral dilemmas. How does the book handle moral ambiguity, and what do you think it suggests about human nature?
- Trust is a recurring theme in Butter. How do the characters navigate trust and betrayal, and what does this reveal about their personalities and motivations?
- Do you think that Kajii is guilty of killing her three alleged victims?
Also at this meeting, we'll vote on our book to discuss in June. In keeping with our group's design, we discussed a 19th century (or earlier) woman author in February, we'll be discussing a 20th century author in March, and a 21st century author in April.
As always with cafe-based events, please plan to purchase a beverage or snack from our host to thank them for the use of their space. Higher Grounds also has a delicious lunch/brunch menu, so feel free to come early and dine.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
