What we’re about
Books! Art! Friends! What’s not to love?
About Us
We delve into a rich and diverse collection of literature from around the world, exploring various genres and styles that go beyond what's typically found in book clubs. Rather than resorting to easy beach reads or simply watching TV, we actively seek out both well-known and obscure literary gems that challenge and engage the mind.
Location
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts serves as our primary meeting place, and we occasionally pair our book discussions with art tours. Some of our gatherings are held virtually, so be sure to verify the location for each event.
When do we meet?
We meet monthly on Sundays at 10:30 am, usually on the third week of the month. If the event involves a combined book discussion and art tour, it will be specified on the event's title page.
What might we read?
We delve into a mix of fiction, non-fiction, classic, and lesser-known books, as well as contemporary literature. Visit our event pages to view our past and upcoming selections. We steer clear of popular, formulaic authors such as Jodi Picoult, John Grisham, and the like, as well as franchises such as Twilight.
Join us! New members are always welcome. To be considered, please complete all questions on our profile, as we use this information to fairly evaluate applicants. While we generally accept most applications, we have established certain policies to maintain a supportive and enjoyable community. Note: Contact the organizer via the profile form, not via email.
A COUPLE OF IMPORTANT GROUP POLICIES
(1) Identifiable profile photos must be maintained throughout membership; profile questions must be completed. We use profile questions to help us find & keep members that are enthusiastic, will show up, and will enjoy the books we select. We want to build a community of readers who keep coming back.
(2) Please only RSVP "yes" for events that you honestly plan to attend. If you RSVP "YES" but do not show up more than twice without letting the organizer know, you may be removed from the group.
(3) At least four members must RSVP yes to the Meetup or the event may be cancelled.
(4) Members must visit the site at least once in a six month period, or risk being removed to make space for active members.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- The Stranger by Albert CamusVirginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, VA
Welcome to our April 2024 in-person event! We know our Smarty Pants members love the classics;) Join us at VMFA for a captivating discussion of Albert Camus' "The Stranger," a novel that delves into the complexities of existentialism and the absurdity of life.
New York Times Book Review of The Stranger, 1946 - Yellowface by R.F. Kuang-Book and Art Tour EventVirginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, VA
Welcome to our May 2024 combo book discussion and art tour event! Please join us for R.F. Kuang's gripping novel, Yellowface. Please read the following RSVP instructions carefully. If you RSVP for this meetup, you will receive additional details about the art tour location and museum protocol closer to the event date. If your availability for this event changes, update your RSVP as soon as possible. We are allowed a maximum of 15 participants for this tour and we want to use every spot!
1. This is a two-part meetup, the art tour will begin at 10:30 AM at VMFA, and then the book club discussion will follow in the Best Café patio afterward at 11:30.
2. VMFA has decided not to charge us for this tour. (Thanks to our member Terry!).
Art Tour Description: We are fortunate to have our own Terry M hosting our art tour: Inspiration or Cultural Appropriation? Who can use what, and how, in art and literature? Let’s discuss the topic against the backdrop of VMFA’s extensive collections. We will explore objects spanning the centuries from a variety of cultures, where fresh artistic inspiration sprang from exposure to new places and cultures."
Book Description: NPR 2023 Review
