English Books & Literature

**In Italy, language is learned at the table.** We speak while we cook. We correct while we taste. We share while we eat. **The Language Cooking Lab is an immersive evening where complete beginners learn the fundamentals of Italian while preparing an authentic Italian dish; tonight will be Pasta alla Carbonara — guided by an Italian professional chef with a background in language teaching.** This is not a lecture. This is not a demonstration. It is hands-on, voice-on, pan-on. *** ## **La Carbonara — The Roman Way** We prepare Carbonara as it is done in Rome: * Guanciale * Eggs * Pecorino Romano * Freshly cracked black pepper * Pasta **No cream. No shortcuts.** You will learn: * Proper timing and temperature control * How to create the creamy texture without scrambling * The cultural story behind the dish **Carbonara is simple.** **Simplicity requires precision.** *** ## **What You Will Learn** Designed for complete beginners. You will practice: * **Italian pronunciation basics** * **Essential greetings and introductions** * **Core kitchen vocabulary** * **Action verbs in real time** * **Simple useful sentences** You will not memorize long lists. You will speak while stirring. Movement builds memory. *** ## **Structure of the Evening** **1\. Foundations \(15 minutes\)** Pronunciation and key phrases. **2\. Cook & Speak \(60 minutes\)** Step-by-step cooking with integrated vocabulary and guided repetition. **3\. Tavola Italiana \(30 minutes\)** Structured conversation at the table, with guided Italian-only moments. Because Italian is rhythm, tone, and presence. *** ## **The Host** An Italian professional chef with formal culinary training and experience teaching languages. You receive: * Authentic technique * Clear pedagogical structure * Proper pronunciation * Real cultural insight You are learning from someone who understands both craft and communication. *** ## **Location** **The session takes place in a private house.** The exact address is shared after confirmation inside our WhatsApp group. Please introduce yourself, request to join here and rsvp here= **https://chat.whatsapp.com/F2hTxZ4TT3hHICiihX1Efy** A home setting ensures: * A real kitchen environment * Limited group size * Intimacy and comfort This is a curated cultural gathering, not a rented event space. *** ## **Participant Selection** Participants are screened before confirmation. We prioritize: * Respectful individuals * Genuine learners * People comfortable in a private-home setting Disruptive or inappropriate behavior is not tolerated. **Hospitality is sacred.** **Respect is expected.** *** ## **Contribution** A €10 contribution per person will be collected at the event to expenses Accepted payment methods: * Payconiq * Revolut * Wise Cash if absolutely necessary. *** ## **Important Notes** This dish contains: * Pork * Eggs * Dairy Food allergies must be declared in advance. Cooking involves hot pans and sharp utensils. Participants are responsible for their own actions. You leave with: * Foundations in Italian * A properly executed Carbonara * A shared table experience * **Learn Italian.** **Cook Italian.** **Enjoy Together.**

Please take a moment to read the information and rules for the sessions. **Overview:** Improv sessions in English accepting all levels. We play short and long-form improv comedy, which includes theater-style scenes, guessing, and group games. **Topics:** * Timing * Location * Participation (Attendees list) * RSVP rules * Improv session format * Who is it for? (Participation requirement) *** * **Timing** Being on time will help you and everyone. **18h15** \- Doors open *Please take this time to order your drinks/food and settle in.* **18h30** \- Start of the session **Are you late?** Please inform the event host, or comment on the event page. If you arrive late and the session is already in progress, please wait on the side till the game/scene is finished. Wait for the session moderator to indicate when you can start participating. * **Location** The session takes place on the first floor of The Sister Cafe. Stairs next to the bar. It's the room with a curtain at the door. * **Participation (Attendee list)** The session is limited to **12 attendees**. This is to ensure that the session is manageable and everybody gets enough chances to participate. Therefore, only the people on the "attendee list" are allowed to be present at the session and participate. **Waiting list**: People on the waiting list should keep an eye on the updates, in case someone from the attendees' list drops and you get their spot. **Just want to observe?** Usually, we don't allow any extra audience during these sessions. We invite you to come to any of our shows. But if for some reason you are only interested in observing and not participating, please contact the event host on meetup, or talk with them personally at the session and explain your reasons. Admission for this is not guaranteed. *People on the attendee list are expected to take part.* * **RSVP Rules** * Please update your RSVP status in a timely manner, if you can't make it to the session. This applies to people on the **attendee list AND waiting list.** * If you are on the waiting list, and already know that you won't be able to join in case someone from the main list drops, please update your RSVP to "not going". This will give the chance to the next person on the waiting list. * Emergencies aside, please update your rsvp status on time. Canceling last minute or just 1 hour before isn't helpful. * If we see a pattern from someone not showing up after confirming, or last-minute cancellations, we reserve the right to prohibit access to the sessions. * Please write a comment if you cancel and your spot becomes available. With this others will get an extra notification. **Improv Session Format** The session is held in English. The session is divided into three sections: Warm up, Scene games, and Cool down. **Warmup:** Quick group games are played to break the ice and get the creative juices flowing. **Scenes:** Then we move on to scene games. These are mostly from short-form improv, which can include different games with various gimmicks, like story building, character work, guessing, etc **Cool down:** One or two short group games to end the session. The rules are explained by the moderator before each game. There is no obligation to take part in games that you are not comfortable with. There can be feedback after a game is played. This is so that we learn from each other and gain skills and insights. **Tip**: If you are new, pay attention to the regular players when they are performing and notice small details, like how a stage is cleared before a scene, how to enter a scene, and how to collaborate with each other. * **Who is it for?** Anyone who is interested in improv! We accept all levels, beginners, and advanced participants This is a great place to start if you are new to improv. The basics will be explained. We only require the "Yes, and...!" spirit! If you are an advanced player and have ideas and games to share and work on, please do let us know. We look forward to welcoming you and doing improv!

Drinking & Networking in Brussels. For newcomers, temporary in town - couch surfers and regulars to meet & socialize. What a better day to start the week than drinking & socializing starting on Monday evening?

Do you want to become a confident public speaker? To communicate better and connect? And have fun? Join **Dacia Toastmasters** for an inspiring evening of speeches, impromptu challenges and helpful feedback – all in a warm, international atmosphere. We are a supportive Toastmasters club where communication and leadership skills grow together – through practice, encouragement and community. Next meeting: 📅 First & Third Monday of the month 🕗 19:00 – 21:00 (doors open at 18:45) 📍 Marriott Courtyard Brussels EU Rue Joseph II / Jozef-II straat, 1000 Brussels (Conveniently located near metro Arts-Loi / Kunst-Wet) Why join **Dacia Toastmasters**? ✔️ Practise public speaking with prepared speeches and quick-thinking exercises ✔️ Improve your communication and leadership skills ✔️ Receive constructive feedback in a positive setting ✔️ Meet a vibrant, multilingual community Our meetings are in English with a taste of Romanian and open to everyone. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll find a place to grow. Guests are always welcome. Just bring your curiosity. 📩 RSVP now and join us for a memorable evening!

Rejoins-nous pour découvrir le Touch Rugby sous le signe du sport, du fun et de la convivialité ! 🏉 Que tu sois débutant·e curieux·se, joueur·se occasionnel·le ou habitué·e des terrains, ce rendez-vous est ouvert à toutes et tous. Le touch rugby est un sport en plein essor sans plaquage, accessible, dynamique mais aussi inclusif et fun sur et en dehors des terrains. 💙 ✨ Au programme : * Échauffement collectif * Exercices et jeux * Développement de la condition physique * Bonne humeur, esprit d’équipe et fair-play 🎯 Venez bouger, vous amuser et partager un bon moment ensemble ! 👉 Ramène ta tenue de sport, de l’eau, et surtout ta motivation. On s’occupe du reste 💪 À très vite sur le terrain !

**LIMITED SEATS!!!** **🎶💃 Get Ready to Move, Groove & Feel Alive! 🕺🔥** **✨ Join Our LIVE workshop in Brussels on Bhangra Vaisakhi Special Edition – For All Ages! ✨** Feeling tired after work or school? Need a burst of energy and fun in your day? Our high-energy Bhangra dance classes are the perfect escape — full of music, movement, and pure joy, right from your home! **🌟 Why Join Me?** ✅ Easy-to-follow sessions ✅ Perfect for **kids, teens, and adults** ✅ Great way to stay **active, fit, and stress-free** ✅ Dance like a star – no experience needed! ✅ Learn iconic moves and upbeat routines Whether you're a student, a working professional, or a parent looking for a fun break — this class is for YOU! Let’s dance, laugh, and light up your day — **Bhangra style! 💥** ***P.S. - Planning a wedding or party?*** *If you're looking to **learn Indian dance for a special event**—be it a **wedding performance, sangeet choreography, or a fun group dance for a party**—we’ve got you covered! We offer tailored sessions to help you shine on your big day and create memories that last a lifetime.*

EN (FR en bas): We're still accepting people in our classes. Join us!​ -step 1: Book here! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html) -step 2: Show up! [Schedule](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#schedule) Fees : [All info on trials, packs, subscriptions here](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#fees) Locations: -Rue Brialmont 7, Brussels Metro/Tram: Botanique Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1: From base to the dancefloor! When you come for the first time we go over the base & rhythm with you. Then you are included in the group and everybody learns the same new steps for which you just need the base. Practice makes perfect: just relax and enjoy Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop and/or Forró! Our group is very welcoming and looking forward to meet new dancers! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2: Ready to go deeper on Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop &/or Forró? Let's go! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3: Looking for #SalsaChallenge? Already familiar with Forró Root? We've got your back! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates) More info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be](https://www.danceproject.be) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project) \-\-\-\-\- FR: Nous acceptons encore de nouvelles personnes dans nos cours. Rejoins-nous ! -1ère pas : Fait ta réservation ! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html) -2ème pas : Vient danser ! [Horaire](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#horaire) Les prix : [Toutes les infos sur les essais, packs, abonnements ici](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#prix) Endroits : -Rue Brialmont 7, Bruxelles Metro/Tram: Botanique Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1 : De la base à la piste de danse ! Lorsque tu nous rejoins on voit la base et le rythme avec toi. Ensuite, tu es inclus dans le groupe et tout le monde apprend les mêmes pas pour lesquelles tu as juste besoin de la base. C'est en forgeant qu'on devient forgeron : détend-toi et profite la Salsa, de la Bachata, du Lindy Hop et/ou du Forró ! Notre groupe est très accueillant et a hâte de rencontrer de nouveaux danseurs ! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2 : Prêt à approfondir la Salsa, la Bachata, le Lindy Hop &/ou le Forró ? Allons-y! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3 : Tu cherches #DefiSalsa ? Tu connais déjà Forró Roots ? Nous sommes là pour toi ! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires) Plus d’info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html](https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project)

For our second meeting, we’ll be discussing Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy — a gripping and atmospheric novel that blends mystery, nature writing, and climate fiction. About the book: Dominic Salt and his three children are the caretakers of Shearwater, a remote island not far from Antarctica that houses one of the world’s largest seed banks. As rising sea levels threaten the island, they are among the last inhabitants left, preparing to move the precious seeds to safer ground. During the worst storm the island has ever seen, a mysterious woman named Rowan washes ashore. As the family nurses her back to health, their suspicion slowly turns into connection. But Rowan is hiding the truth about why she came to Shearwater—and soon she discovers that Dominic may be hiding secrets of his own. As powerful storms gather around the island, they must decide whether they can trust one another enough to protect the seeds in their care—and whether they can leave the tragedies of the past behind to build something new together.

Hello, readers ! In April we are reading The Hour Of The Star by Clarice Lispector . We will meet at Maison de Quartier Malibran, Rue de la Digue 10, 1050 Ixelles. **Please keep your RSVP up to date** and happy reading!

We'll be discussing Bezoar And Other Unsettling Stories by Guadalupe Nettel and choosing the next book. This is a short book so you may also read My Friends by Fredrik Backman.

Let's read and discuss non-fiction together. In **April** we will be discussing "Zarifa: A Woman's Battle in a Man's World" by Nobel Peace Prize Winner Zarifa Ghafari. For more information about the book check out goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60383049-zarifa How it works: - 10-15min Introduction round - 1 - 1,5h Free discussion around the book - 10min selection of the next book. (We will vote between three possible books. I bring two suggestions and we select a third one from the group. So if there is a book you like to discuss feel free to put it forward.) Don't worry if you cannot finish it in time. Just join us for a coffee or tea and a good conversation. :) Happy reading!

📚 Book Club Invitation: *Jesus and John Wayne* by Kristin Kobes Du Mez For our next meeting, we’ll be discussing *Jesus and John Wayne*, a thought-provoking book about how religion, culture, masculinity, and politics became deeply intertwined in modern evangelical America. Kristin Kobes Du Mez explores how certain ideals of strength, leadership, and nationalism came to shape a religious movement and what that has meant for faith, society, and public life. If you’re interested in questions about religion, power, identity, and culture, this book offers plenty to reflect on and discuss. 📅 Date: Saturday, 25 April ⏰ Time: 11:30 📍 Venue: Carpe Diem, Avenue de Tervuren 13, 1040 Brussels Expect an open and engaging discussion in a relaxed setting, with good coffee and good company. As always, you’re welcome whether you finished the book or just want to join the conversation. Those who wish can stay for lunch afterwards. 🏡 Book Club Home Rules 1️⃣ You’re welcome even if you didn’t finish the book. 2️⃣ We listen to understand, not to win. 3️⃣ Curiosity, respect, and openness come first. Looking forward to another lively exchange of ideas. 📞 Questions: 0474.60.83.70

Common Ground Book Club
An in-person reading group exploring critical theory, from the Frankfurt School to contemporary thinkers. We’ll read books and essays, and our discussions will focus on society, power, and modern phenomena: from politics to media and social trends. 
Fifth Meeting
We will discuss “The Structural Transformation of the Public Sphere” by J. Habermas: https://allen-webb-wmu.github.io/website/habermas.pdf
 Who is it for?
No prior philosophy or theory background is required, just curiosity and a willingness to engage. I (the organiser) am not an expert; I just seek other kind souls who want to exchange thoughts ✨ 
Format
• Readings may be short essays, selected chapters, or full books.
• Each meeting begins with a short recap/introduction of the text.
• Open, informal discussion.
• Everyone is encouraged to bring a passage or question they found interesting, confusing, or provocative.
• Language of discussion: English.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please reach out on Meet-up :)

Hallo Freunde der deutschen Sprache, wir laden alle, die gern ihr Deutsch üben wollen zu diesem Treffen ein! Falls Ihr angemeldet seid, aber nicht kommen könnt, wären wir dankbar für Eure Abmeldung (WhatsApp - Mike: +32 475 60 88 68). Wir freuen uns auf den Austausch mit Euch!

Welcome, readers! Our April read is **_Martyr!_ by Kaveh Akbar.** The story follows a young Iranian American poet grappling with grief, addiction, and the aching question of what makes a life meaningful. Drawn into an unexpected friendship with a terminally ill artist, he begins to confront faith, love, and the seduction of self-destruction. Lyrical, darkly funny, and emotionally piercing, the novel wrestles with beauty and despair in equal measure. It’s a story about longing—to be seen, to be forgiven, and to matter. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Posting this early because seemingly all Sundays in May are holidays or busy! I picked a shorter thriller that's hopefully a fast read/listen. [Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3458940) Location: Grandview Cafe, *1455 W. 3rd Ave*, Columbus, OH 43212 [Menu](https://www.grandviewcafe.com/menu) Book summary: Daniel leads a rich life in the university town of Athens, Georgia. He's got a couple close friends, a steady paycheck working for a regional airline, and of course, for a few glorious days each Fall, college football tailgates. He considers himself to be a mostly lucky guy -- despite the fact that he's suffered from a debilitating disease since he was a small child, one that has left him unable to speak or to move without a wheelchair. Largely confined to his home, Daniel spends the hours he's not online communicating with irate air travelers observing his neighborhood from his front porch. One young woman passes by so frequently that spotting her out the window has almost become part of his daily routine. Until the day he's almost sure he sees her being kidnapped.

Join us for our April Book Club gathering where we will come together to discuss *[Stop Me if You've Heard This One](https://www.kristenarnettwriter.com/stopmeifyouveheardthisone)* by [Kristen Arnett](https://www.kristenarnettwriter.com/about) in a safe and welcoming environment. Make new friends who share your passion for books and connect with fellow LGBTQ book enthusiasts.

Let’s meet and share our thoughts about Carson McCullers’ novella, The Ballad of The Sad Café.

This month we’ll be reading Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb. Feel free to come even if you don’t finish the book!

Love getting lost in a good book? [The Book Loft](https://www.bookloft.com/) of German Village is an iconic independent bookstore packed with hard-to-find literary treasures! This isn’t your run-of-the-mill bookstore; it’s a 32-room literary wonderland that would make even the most seasoned bibliophile’s head spin (one of the largest in the country)! **MEET**: We'll gather outside the storefront and then start browsing... **DESSERT**: We'll grab some famous macaroons to start our foodie tour. [Pistacia Vera](https://www.pistaciavera.com/) is a delicious bakery and cafe in the German Village. This charming shop is especially known for its classic macarons. **HAPPY HOUR**: Italian drinks and bites at [Cento's happy hour](https://centogermanvillage.com/menus/). **PARKING**: Street parking all around here. Check the parking time limit. The bookstore and the foodie stops are all on 3rd Street within 4 blocks on the same side of the street.

"The SOB is a ballet dancer. He’s the best ballet dancer that ever lived, and if I get a good chance I’ll kill him with my bare hands." - W.C. Fields In *City Lights*, Chaplin's Little Tramp meets a blind girl selling flowers who mistakes him for a wealthy man. When he learns that an operation may restore her sight, he sets off to earn the money she needs to have the surgery. He also befriends an alcoholic millionaire who only recognizes him when he is drunk. When the blind girl and her grandmother fall behind in the rent and face eviction, he tries working and even enters a boxing competition to raise the money they need. Regarded as Chaplin's masterpiece, *City Lights* has been ranked on more than seventeen "100 greatest movies of all time" lists. Orson Welles cited it as his favorite picture. *City Lights* is available for streaming on Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBOMax, Tubi and PlutoTV. The Columbus Library lists three copies on blu-ray and eight copies on DVD. Watch the movie on your own, then join us upstairs at East Market to discuss the film. If you want more, *Unknown Chaplin* is a three-episode lost-footage documentary available on Youtube. It covers his time on *City Lights* beginning at the twenty-six minute mark of episode two: https://youtu.be/f8960Uc15hI?t=1558