Geneva International Book Club

Often likened to Kafka's The Castle, The Tartar Steppe is both a scathing critique of military life and a meditation on the human thirst for glory. It tells of young Giovanni Drogo, who is posted to a distant fort overlooking the vast Tartar steppe. Although not intending to stay, Giovanni suddenly finds that years have passed, as, almost without his noticing, he has come to share the others' wait for a foreign invasion that never happens. Over time the fort is downgraded and Giovanni's ambitions fade until the day the enemy begins massing on the desolate steppe...

LOCATION: Maison Internationale des Associations, salle Albert Jacquard
Presenter: VLAD
Starting time: 19:15 sharp
Format:

• Members introduction (5-10 minutes)
• Book presentation (20-30 minutes)

A brief history of the author’s life
A short summary of the book
Main ideas/themes

• Group discussion (45-60 minutes), members' personal views on the book, opposing ideas, etc.
• Announcement/info on next meeting (5 minutes)

Humour has long held a unique place in literature. Beyond amusement, it exposes life's absurdities, highlights human weaknesses with compassion, and encourages us not to take ourselves too seriously. Through laughter, authors reveal truths veiled in irony and wit, capturing both the simplicity and complexity of existence. Comic writing can console, challenge, entertain, and enlighten. Whether through satire, exaggeration, or tender observation, humour connects writer and reader in a shared understanding of life’s contradictions. Humorous fiction is not just for amusement, but a deeper reflection on humanity, language, and storytelling. The selected works remind us that, in the hands of great writers, laughter reveals life’s imperfections, absurdities, and grace.

Location: Maison des Associations, salle Albert Jacquard
Starting time: 7:15 pm sharp
Presenter: Sophie

Format:
Part 1: presenter(s) provide a short overview of the pre-selected books, highlighting some of the reviews and critics and other relevant background. Members who have read any of the books can contribute.
Part 2: participants are invited to introduce any book that they would like to recommend and provide a short overview thereof (on a voluntarily basis).
Part 3: participants vote to select the book to be discussed in one of the upcoming book discussion meetings.
We look forward to seeing you all!