English Books & Literature

🏛️ **WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?** Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎 Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic. The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌 📓 **HOW DOES IT WORK?** Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LB5EKxC9JsN7S1wVok3vXe?mode=gi_t), along with jump-off points to get the conversation going. When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture. **General Meeting Agenda** Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline: * 19:00-19:15 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the ‘official' start. * 19:15-19:25 - Meeting introduction, explanation of Practical Philosophy and the topic for the week, read the guidelines and the overview so attendees know what to expect in terms of timelines. * 19:25-20:45 - Break into small groups - introduce yourselves and general thoughts on the topic, open discussion afterwards. At this point the group can review the ‘jump-off’ questions as needed, but they are just there to help guide the conversation. It’s not obligatory to answer them. * 20:45-21:00 - Bring everyone back together to discuss conclusions of the topic - each group gives a short 1-minute summary. Organizer concludes the meeting and everyone takes a group photo. * 21:00 - The official meeting is over but it’s a great opportunity to get to know people in a non-structured environment, so we often stick around, chat, and get to know each other. **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend! We just ask that if we are meeting in a café, buy a beverage! Some chapters rent a space for us to meet, and they may ask for donations to help contribute to the cost of rent. Donations will always be 100% voluntary though! 💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY 🗣 “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam 🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 (the topic was authority) and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel **🤓 FAQ** * ​What will we talk about? What's the topic? ​The topic for the week is shared every Sunday in the Whatsapp group. We try to add the topic to the comment section on this event page as well but if you don’t see it, the topic and the jump-off points will be in our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LB5EKxC9JsN7S1wVok3vXe?mode=gi_t). * Do I need to study or read anything to attend? No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what YOU think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it, but it's not required. * Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on? The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school. * Is it mostly men that attend? Surprisingly, no! Although philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms. * Can I come alone? Of course you can, we encourage it :) * Can I be late? Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow of the conversation. * Where do you meet? The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LB5EKxC9JsN7S1wVok3vXe?mode=gi_t) group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/practical-philosophy-locations/). **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY - Making Philosophy Available To All.** ✨ Practical Philosophy hosts weekly, in-person meetups in over 20 countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ \*\*\* Join our [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LB5EKxC9JsN7S1wVok3vXe?mode=gi_t) 👈 Follow us on [Instagram](www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/) 👈 Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/) 👈

As we gear up for our Mount Fuji expedition, this guided conditioning hike at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is your chance to train with intention — strengthening both body and mind for the climb ahead. This is not a leisure walk. It’s a focused training session built to help you: • Boost cardiovascular endurance • Build leg strength for long, sustained ascents • Gain confidence on stairs and uneven terrain • Develop the mental resilience needed for higher peaks Whether you’re preparing for Mount Fuji or simply aiming to elevate your outdoor fitness, this guided session offers structure, support, and a motivating group atmosphere to challenge yourself safely. Surrounded by lush forest trails and steady climbs, you’ll finish the session feeling stronger, recharged, and one step closer to your mountain goals. 🥾 Event Details 📍 Location: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve 📅 Date: Sunday, 17 May 2026 ⏰ Meeting Time: 2:45 PM (sharp departure) 🚇 Meeting Point: Beauty World MRT – Passenger Service Counter ⏱️ Walk Duration: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM 🗺️ Route Plan 🚶 Start: Bukit Timah Nature Park ⬆️ Climb: Bukit Timah Summit – Loop 1 🌿 Continue: Wallace Trail 🏕️ Proceed: Dairy Farm Hut 🧍 End: Bukit Timah Nature Park Expect stairs, inclines, and natural forest terrain — perfect for building hiking-specific endurance in a safe, local environment. ⚠️ Important Notes • Punctuality is required — we depart strictly at 2:45 PM • Wear proper hiking or sports shoes • Bring sufficient drinking water • Be prepared for sustained inclines and stair climbs • Optional: light snacks, sunblock, insect repellent 📝 Disclaimer Participation is voluntary and undertaken at your own risk. All participants are responsible for their personal safety throughout the session. Please remain attentive, follow guidance, and notify the organizer immediately if you feel unwell. Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, falls, and physical fatigue. The organizer will not be liable for any injury, loss, or incident arising from participation. ✨ Start the Year Strong Train with purpose. Build resilience. Take a decisive step toward your mountain ambitions. 📝 Secure your spot today — limited availability. 🌍 Upcoming International Expeditions 🏞️ Mount Sumbing, Indonesia ✅ 1st Quarter 2026 🏞️ Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia ✅ 2nd Quarter 🏔️ Mount Fuji, Japan - Coming mid of July ⛰️ Yushan (Mount Jade), Taiwan - Upcoming 🏞️ Mount Rinjani, Indonesia - Upcoming Train local. Prepare smart. Conquer global peaks.

Soak in the golden-hour glow from CapitaSpring’s Sky Garden as the city transits from sunset to starlight. 🌆🏙 Afterward, we’ll head to Lau Pa Sat for dinner beneath its historic arches. It’ll be a relaxed evening of panoramic views, great food and nice company! **This is a limited tickets event. 🎟 🎫 Kindly only confirm if you are sure that you can make it, as last min drop-out deprive others a real chance to join. 😊** To protect your privacy, we do not collect telephone numbers 📵. Communication will be through the Event chat. Kindly check for any updates, especially on the day of the event, so that you will be updated on any changes. The route may be amended or the hike postponed in the event of inclement weather, for the safety of our walkers. 🚶🚶‍♂️ Exercise care while you walk. Please inform us when you feel unwell and need to drop out. *Disclaimer: By joining this walk, you assume responsibility for your own safety and well-being 🚸, and will not hold the organizers/hosts liable for any loss or injury or other unforeseen events, ensuring a shared commitment to a safe and enjoyable experience for all. 😊 Thank you. 🙏 Photo credit: Mothership

**For ages 16 and above.** Ideal for players with basic understanding of the game but is looking to take their skill to the next level! ### **Address** Palawan Beach, Sentosa ### **Schedule** Sundays 3PM - 4PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

**For ages 17 and above.** Influenced by the Spanish and African culture, the Tango is sensual and passionate, one of the most fascinating dances. Stylized strides dominate this dance, along with periodical sharp and staccato movements. Tango’s passionate nature evokes a strong connection to the music, your partner and the audience, a dance that is exciting and often easy to learn. Its dramatic nature also makes Tango a very popular dance that is often featured in blockbuster movies; a favourite dance for those who enjoy drama within a dance. ### **Address** 795, North Bridge Rd, #02-01 797, 198763 ### **Schedule** Sundays 430PM - 530PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

**For ages 16 and above.** Ideal for players with basic understanding of the game but is looking to take their skill to the next level! ### **Address** Palawan Beach, Sentosa ### **Schedule** Sundays 4PM - 5PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

**Prawning & BBQ Social: Sunday Sunset Catch!** **Looking for a relaxing way to wrap up your weekend? Join us for a hands-on Prawning & BBQ session at Hai Bin! Whether you're a seasoned pro or have never held a rod before, it’s all about the thrill of the catch and the delicious reward afterward.** **We’ll spend an hour and a half at the ponds, followed by a communal BBQ to enjoy the freshest prawns possible—the ones we catch ourselves!** **Event Details** * **Date: Sunday, 17 May** * **Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM** * **Location: Hai Bin Prawning** **6 Tebing Ln, #01-04, Singapore 828835** * **Cost: $24 per person (Includes rod rental and bait)** * **Admin Fee:$7** **The Game Plan** * **7:30 PM – 7:45 PM: Meet & Greet. We'll gather at the entrance to get our rods and bait.** * **7:45 PM – 9:15 PM: 1.5 Hours of Prawning. We have a 30-minute grace period for latecomers, but the sooner you start, the more you catch!** * **9:15 PM – 9:45 PM: BBQ Time. We’ll head to the pits to salt and grill our catch for a fresh Sunday night snack.** **What to Bring** * **Patience & Good Vibes: Prawning is a game of skill (and a little luck!).** * **Casual Wear: It can get a bit warm around the BBQ pits.** * **Small Change: For drinks or extra snacks available at the venue.** **RSVP Note: Please note that your attendance is only confirmed by early payment to Kimi at 8796 4912. The event is subjected to cancellation if the minimum attendance of 4 is not met. In the event of cancellation, you will be refunded in full. Confirm your attendance ASAP with us for the event to go ahead! See you by the water!**

**Prawning & BBQ Social: Sunday Sunset Catch!** **Looking for a relaxing way to wrap up your weekend? Join us for a hands-on Prawning & BBQ session at Hai Bin! Whether you're a seasoned pro or have never held a rod before, it’s all about the thrill of the catch and the delicious reward afterward.** **We’ll spend an hour and a half at the ponds, followed by a communal BBQ to enjoy the freshest prawns possible—the ones we catch ourselves!** **Event Details** * **Date: Sunday, 17 May** * **Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM** * **Location: Hai Bin Prawning** **6 Tebing Ln, #01-04, Singapore 828835** * **Cost: $24 per person (Includes rod rental and bait)** **Admin fee $7** **The Game Plan** * **7:30 PM – 7:45 PM: Meet & Greet. We'll gather at the entrance to get our rods and bait.** * **7:45 PM – 9:15 PM: 1.5 Hours of Prawning. We have a 30-minute grace period for latecomers, but the sooner you start, the more you catch!** * **9:15 PM – 9:45 PM: BBQ Time. We’ll head to the pits to salt and grill our catch for a fresh Sunday night snack.** **What to Bring** * **Patience & Good Vibes: Prawning is a game of skill (and a little luck!).** * **Casual Wear: It can get a bit warm around the BBQ pits.** * **Small Change: For drinks or extra snacks available at the venue.** **RSVP Note: Please note that your attendance is only confirmed by early payment to Kimi at 8796 4912. The event is subjected to cancellation if the minimum attendance of 4 is not met. In the event of cancellation, you will be refunded in full. Confirm your attendance ASAP with us for the event to go ahead! See you by the water! Ji**

**For ages 13 and above.** Muay Thai is a striking based martial art and sport. Also known as “The Art of Eight Limbs”, it is characterised by the combined use of the fists, elbows, knees and shins. It is an ancient martial art of Thailand known for its tremendous power. Students will be taught how to utilise a symphony of kicks, punches, knees strikes and elbow strikes. ### **Address** 701A Yishun Ave 5, #02-01A, Singapore 761701 ### **Schedule** Sundays 6PM - 7PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

**For ages 7 and above. Children aged 5 to 7 require parental assistance.** Want to test your skill at the sport? Be the Willliam Tell or Robin Hood? Absolute Archery (Singapore) was inaugurated in 2020, aiming to provide training venue, competitive coaching, fun shoot events and a place for the community bring people together to advocate and support each other in pursuing the sports. Our head coach, Colin, has been active in the sports since late 90s till date. Being a competitive archer, he was with the National Team and had accumulated experiences which he could share with the archers and students. ### **Address** 9 Ah Hood Rd, East Asia Institute of Management ### **Schedule** Sundays 3PM - 4PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

Welcome to the Party of Fives Meetups! If you are a gamer who wants to go beyond the usual PARTY gaming fare at boardgame meetups and cafes, this is it! We don't usually play Cards against Humanity, Exploding Kittens and Unstable Unicorns. That's just us. Make us play if you can. We will be playing an assortment of board games ranging from light strategic kinds to heavy thematic ones. Games we usually play range from light ones like Azul, Splendor, Jamaica to medium ones like Yokohama, Endeavor and Nippon and of course heavy ones like Twilight Imperium, Gloomhaven, Tainted Grail and Kingdom Death Monster! Do not be surprised if you see us painting miniatures or are engaged in some sort of insanely time-consuming enhancements towards our game elements in our games. Everyone get their kick in different ways. :) Painting groups are also in their groups of fives ... For the game designers out there, just tell us that you are a creator when you see us and we will have our own private creative sessions mapped out in a feasible way. Most others don't care so we should not disturb the force unnecessarily. We will contact you when you sign up and place you into appropriate messaging groups with different needs to facilitate further communication. Total noobs are totally welcome! While we don't serve food ourselves, we are smack right in the middle of the legendary Golden Mile premises with an huge range of eateries from super curry puffs, loud Japanese izakaya food, heavenly chicken rice with steamboat, hellish black burgers and authentic Thai food that is just sick. All within a pebble's throw away. Tea and dinner sessions (at our own expenses) usually follow the gaming sessions according to our designated groups. Due to the current Covid-19 and social distancing restrictions, you are not allowed to join us for these food consuming sessions only. For your understanding, please If you have something specific in mind, do a shout out below and we see if we can help within reasonable grounds. There will be a charge of SGD $15 (ARENA: $15), (HEAVY/CAMPAIGN GAMES: $25) collected at the door (in cash) to help with the running of the event. How to sign up for our sessions: • Join the Singapore Manga Anime Games & Cosplay Assembly as a member. • RSVP below and retain a screenshot of your RSVP as proof. • Note that without proof of RSVP you will not be allowed into the premises. • Note that those who sign up but do not show up will not be allowed to sign up for future Party of Five sessions. • Note that RSVP closes 6 hours before the event takes place. For those who will like to form groups to play other games, feel free to shout out your intentions at the comments section below: Note that there won’t be any game masters around to help you with your games on site. The meetup will run from the time stated to the time ended. By signing up for this meetup, you agree to the terms and conditions set above.

**Our May novel is: *The Quiet Librarian* by Allen Eskens** **This month’s book is set in the 20th century and mixes historical fiction with suspense and thriller elements. It also centers on women’s stories and relationships. The novel is 368 pages in print or 8 hours and 12 minutes on audiobook.** Hana Babic is a quiet, middle-aged librarian in Minnesota who wants nothing more than to be left alone. But when a detective arrives with the news that her best friend has been murdered, Hana knows that something evil has come for her, a dark remnant of the past she and her friend had shared. Thirty years before, Hana was someone else: Nura Divjak, a teenager growing up in the mountains of war-torn Bosnia—until Serbian soldiers arrived to slaughter her entire family before her eyes. The events of that day thrust Nura into the war, leading her to join a band of militia fighters, where she became not only a fierce warrior but a legend—the deadly Night Mora. But a shattering final act forced Nura to flee to the United States with a bounty on her head\*\*.\*\*

The theme for May is Thriller. • The book we will be discussing is A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. (determined by votes from April Book Club. Let me know if you'd like a free digital copy of the book) • This event will be at the main library. Feel free to come whether or not you've started or finished the book. • Small snacks will be provided. You're welcome to bring your own snacks & drinks too! Let me know if you’d like to volunteer to bring snacks or drinks for the group.

Welcome, readers! Our May read is **_Kindred_ by Octavia E. Butler.** The story follows Dana, a Black woman living in 1976 California, who is suddenly pulled back to a Maryland plantation before the Civil War. She learns her survival is tied to a white slaveholder’s son. Forced to move between centuries, she must endure the brutal realities of slavery while fighting to hold on to her identity. Tense, intimate, and unforgettable, Kindred explores how the past refuses to stay buried. 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! 📖

This month we’ll be reading Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett. Feel free to come and chat even if you don’t finish the book!

By popular demand, the group wanted to read and discuss the semi-autobiographical novel by Henri-Pierre Roche, that inspired the Truffaut movie we watched last year. The book is available through the Columbus Library's interlibrary loan system. They reported there are twenty-eight copies available in the state of Ohio. If you have a library card, you can file an interlibrary loan request here: https://www.columbuslibrary.org/library-services/ . There are also used copies available on Amazon and eBay for under twenty dollars. You may want to rewatch the movie after reading the book, so we can compare and contrast in our discussion. The Columbus Library has four copies on DVD, and it's streaming on HBOMax.

Join us for our May Book Club gathering where we will come together to discuss *[Cantoras](https://caroderobertis.com/books/cantoras/)*[ ](https://caroderobertis.com/books/cantoras/)by [Caro de Robertis](https://caroderobertis.com/bio/) in a safe and welcoming environment. Make new friends who share your passion for books and connect with fellow LGBTQ book enthusiasts.