Yarra and Botanics Walk discussing 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo'

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 ''The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo' by Taylor Jenkins Reid.

The blurb:
"Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?

Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.

Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story nears its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways."

Goodreads rating: 4.41

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.