Society of Speculative Fiction

January brought a cold wind and rain but for the book clubbers who came, we had a great time. We had high energy and a reunion of friends. During the quiz show featuring The Host, some of us felt like the incorrect answers could have been incorporated into the story and made it better, especially choice D on question 6 where Wanderer "kicks" Kyle after he tries to kill her! The bell tones for the correct answers during the slide show were also a hit. I found extra excuses to ring the correct answer tone. ;) Jeopardy can't compete with the Society of Specualtive Fiction Quiz Show!

Our favorite characeters were Wanderer and Jeb. Wanderer for her unique perspective on what it means to be human and Jeb becasue he's such a smart character who only uses the "conspiracy theorist" idea as a front. He knows how to motivate people to make good decisions in the group. Over time, we know that the Souls will become more and more affected by the intense emotions and the ability to lie of their hosts. If there is a sequel, this would be a good thing to focus on. For Wanderer's opinion of the Fire Eaters, we hypothesized that she was a Fire Eater on the Fire Planet and that is why she avoided answering the question about if she thought it was ethical to eat the sentient Walking Flowers. So far as the difference between Melanie's and Wanderer's secrets, the secrets show their biggest fears and what they value the most. One could debate which was more important but they were both the most important secret to each of them. We could see both sides when it came to Wanderer's compassion and Sharon's hatred. Both are justified in being "human(e)". We all agreed that what Wanderer was willing to do, sacrifice herself for Melanie's happiness would be hard to do. We thought that we could do it for someone we loved directly but not indirectly. Responses were mixed if we wore Jeb's shoes. Some said no that they would have put Melanie/Wanderer out of their misery and some said they would have brought Melandie/Wanderer into the caves as a compromise. They've brought in Souls before. We all thought that Ian and Wanderer had the stronger relationship over Melanie and Jared. Ian loved Wanderer even when holding her in her Soul form. Melanie and Jared thought they were the last two humans on Earth. How much of their love is purely from this and not for the person? If there is a sequel, we feel that Wanderer, Ian, and Burns Living Flowers will be the next love triangle to move the plot.

Our next book club selection will be Twilight (2005), by Stephenie Meyer. We will meet on Thursday, March 18, 2010 from 6-8 PM. You can place a copy on hold to be sent to the branch of your choice in the library catalog.