The American by Henry James

If you wish to RSVP for this event, then please join us on Heylo at:
https://www.heylo.com/events/2119fae1-b3c1-4021-8c5e-18b2446e5d22/-OghxWKJb6K_rk81e7hU

If you see ** added before and after this link, then please remove them. The correct link starts with https and ends with 7hU

OUR VENUE FOR MAY WILL BE AT KEVIN'S HOME NEAR DOWNTOWN BERKELEY, A FEW BLOCKS FROM BART.

Upcoming books and meetings:
Sunday, May 10, 2026: The American by Henry James
Sunday, Jun 14, 2026: TBD

Originally published as a serial in The Atlantic Monthly in 1876-77 and then as a book in 1877.

Christopher Newman, a ‘self-made’ American millionaire in France, falls in love with the beautiful, aristocratic Claire de Bellegarde. Her family, taken aback by his brash American manner, rejects his proposal of marriage. When Newman discovers a guilty secret in the Bellegardes’ past, he confronts a moral dilemma: should he expose them and thus gain his revenge?

James’ masterly early work is at once a social comedy, a melodramatic romance, and a realistic novel of manners.

This is a casual gathering of gay men held on the second Sunday of the month. We have fun and stimulating discussions about quality gay literature while sharing a potluck meal.

Books are selected by participants several months in advance, and the only requirements for attending are to RSVP, to bring food and/or a beverage to share, and to have read a substantial part (at least half) of the book being discussed.

If you're coming, please add a "comment" on this page saying what you'll be bringing for the potluck, so we're less likely to end up with only one type of food. Store-bought food is fine!

Gather at 2:00 for potluck; discussion begins at 3:00 and ends by 4:30.
Event is at a private residence a few blocks from downtown Berkeley BART, and space is limited, so be sure to sign up soon!