Yarra and Botanics Walk discussing 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' by Khaled Hosseini

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side, near where there are often booths selling river cruise and ferry tickets).

We'll walk for 6-8 km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and King's Domain, returning to the starting location. If people wish, we can also go for a coffee near Federation Square after the walk.

This month, we're reading and talking about 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' by Khaled Hosseini.

The blurb:
"Mariam is only fifteen when she is sent to Kabul to marry the troubled and bitter Rasheed, who is thirty years her senior. Nearly two decades later, in a climate of growing unrest, tragedy strikes fifteen-year-old Laila, who must leave her home and join Mariam's unhappy household. Laila and Mariam are to find consolation in each other, their friendship to grow as deep as the bond between sisters, as strong as the ties between mother and daughter.

With the passing of time comes Taliban rule over Afghanistan, the streets of Kabul loud with the sound of gunfire and bombs, life a desperate struggle against starvation, brutality and fear, the women's endurance tested beyond their worst imaginings. Yet love can move people to act in unexpected ways, lead them to overcome the most daunting obstacles with a startling heroism. In the end it is love that triumphs over death and destruction.

A Thousand Splendid Suns is a portrait of a wounded country and a story of family and friendship, of an unforgiving time, an unlikely bond, and an indestructible love."

Goodreads rating: 4.44

How does a walking bookclub work?
Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk.

Should I read the book beforehand?
The conversation will be more interesting if you do!

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfy walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to.

No shows - No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group.

Voluntary contribution to meetup fees
Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $320 a year to organise a group? If you wish, you can make a voluntary contribution towards Walking Bookclub organiser fees at any walk, by buying a ticket to a special voluntary contribution event or asking host for details for an electronic transfer. $5 a year is great if you attend a few walks, $10 is fantastic if you really enjoy the events and come most months. It is completely voluntary – you are welcome to continue attending events even if you are not able to contribute at the moment or if you are a new member and wish to join a few events first. Contributions are only once per year, not per event.