Book Lovers

**What we do:** We post books on monthly basis; everyone who reads or has read the book on their own time can join in. We get together, share opinions and thoughts about the book. We are here for the love of reading and sharing thoughts. **Book of choice:** **Pedagogy of the Oppressed** **By Paulo Freire** **4.30 stars - 39,165 ratings - 2,979 reviews** First published in Portuguese in 1968, Pedagogy of the Oppressed was translated and published in English in 1970. The book is considered one of the foundational texts of critical pedagogy, and proposes pedagogy with a new relationship between teacher, student, and society. Dedicated to the oppressed and based on his own experience helping Brazilian adults to read and write. Freire includes a detailed Marxist class analysis in his exploration of the relationship between the colonizer and the colonized. In the book, Freire calls traditional pedagogy the "banking model of education" because it treats the student as an empty vessel to be filled with knowledge, like a piggy bank. He argues that pedagogy should instead treat the learner as a co-creator of knowledge. It is one of the most cited book in social science. [https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/72657.Pedagogy_of_the_Oppressed](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/72657.Pedagogy_of_the_Oppressed) Feel welcomed to watch the below as well and join: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ll6M0cXV54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ll6M0cXV54) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFWjnkFypFA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFWjnkFypFA) Safar Book Group book shelves [https://www.goodreads.com/group/bookshelf/48954-safar-book-group](https://www.goodreads.com/group/bookshelf/48954-safar-book-group)

Masnavi Book 1 Weekly reading and discussion group

**It is a paid event. Charges 45aed for 2 hrs of the game per player.** **NOTE: This is dedicated to super advanced levels only.** # 🎯 Welcome to Badminton Lovers Dubai! **The World's Highest-rated badminton community** from the heart of Dubai \(⭐ 4\.9 ★ \| 4500\+ reviews\) – where fun\, fitness\, and friendship come together on court\! This event is designed for **super** **advanced player seeking competitive rallies**, you’ll enjoy: ✔ 2 hours of structured, doubles games ✔ Professional world-class courts at **Baseline Sports Academy Al Qouz** ✔ A friendly, welcoming community of advanced players *** ## ⭐ Why Join Us? ✔ Dubai’s **#1 rated sports & social group** ✔ Play with 4–5 players per court → **minimum waiting time** ✔ Separate courts for **advanced competitive matches** ✔ Beginner-friendly (other days) – guidance & support provided ✔ **Feather shuttles included** + limited rackets (first-come, first-serve) ✔ Exclusive **discounts at leading sports stores in Dubai** ✔ Social, fun, and a great way to meet new friends *** ## 📍 Event Details * ⏳ **Duration:** 2 hours of exciting badminton games * 🏸 **Venue:** Baseline Sports Academy Al Qouz * 💵 **Fee:** 45 AED (includes feather shuttles) * 💳 **Payment:** Online (CareemPay/Bank Transfer – 0509001406). *Cash is only for approved regulars (+5 AED surcharge).* * 🔄 **System:** Mix-and-match doubles for maximum variety *** ## 📱 New Players – Important At the time of RSVP, please WhatsApp the organiser: 📲 0509001406 \| 0502480751 \(Waqsi\) https://wa.me/971509001406 *** ## 💰 Payment & Cancellation Policy * **RSVP = Commitment** * Your RSVP is your commitment to attend. Please honour it. * Your RSVP blocks a spot, and you are responsible for payment unless you cancel on time. **Payment** * Payment is required **immediately at the time of RSVP** to secure your spot. * If you RSVP but do not pay **and** do not cancel within the allowed time, you are still liable for the session fee. **Cancellation by Players** * ✅ Cancel **12+ hours before the event:** No charge. If already paid, the amount is credited towards a future session. * ❌ Cancel **less than 12 hours before** OR **No-show:** Full payment required, even if you have not yet paid. No credit/refund. **Unpaid RSVPs** * Unpaid RSVPs may be removed by organisers **before the 12-hour window.** * Within 12 hours of the event, all RSVPs (paid or unpaid) are treated as confirmed and subject to the cancellation/no-show policy. **Event Cancelled by Organisers** * If we cancel, you will receive a **full refund** or a **session credit** (your choice). **Non-Payment Consequences** * Players who fail to honour payment after a late cancellation or no-show may be restricted from RSVPing for future sessions until dues are cleared. *** ## 📸 Social Media Policy * Photos/videos may be used to promote badminton & our community * You can request removal in writing for future events * Past media cannot be deleted *** ## 👥 Guest Policy * Guests must be registered with **name & level** * RSVP holder is responsible for guest payment & cancellations *** ## 🏸 Safety Guidelines & Event Rules *(Badminton Lovers Dubai)* To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organised experience for everyone, all participants are required to read and follow the guidelines below: *** ### 1️⃣ Personal Responsibility * All players participate **at their own risk**. * Please ensure you are **physically fit and medically able** to play badminton before joining the session. * Warm up properly and play within your personal limits. *** ### 2️⃣ On-Court Safety * Always be aware of **other players**, shuttle direction, and adjacent courts. * Avoid running into other courts or behind players during active rallies. * Stop play immediately if a shuttle or player enters your court unexpectedly. * Wear **appropriate non-marking sports shoes** to prevent slips and injuries. *** ### 3️⃣ Equipment & Attire * Use suitable badminton rackets and equipment in good condition. * Badminton Lovers Dubai is **not responsible** for any damage to personal equipment. *** ### 4️⃣ Personal Belongings * Players are fully responsible for their **own belongings**, including rackets, bags, wallets, phones, and valuables. * Please do not leave personal items unattended. * **The organisers are not liable** for any loss, theft, or damage to personal property. *** ### 5️⃣ Injuries & Medical Emergencies * In case of injury, please inform the organiser immediately. * First aid (if available at the venue) is provided as a courtesy only. * **The organisers, hosts, and venue are not liable** for any injuries, accidents, or medical conditions arising before, during, or after the event. *** ### 6️⃣ Conduct & Sportsmanship * Respect fellow players, organisers, and venue staff at all times. * Aggressive behaviour, unsafe play, or repeated rule violations may result in removal from the session without refund. * Follow organiser instructions regarding court rotation, timing, and player grouping. *** ### 7️⃣ Venue Rules * All participants must comply with the **venue’s rules and regulations**. * Any penalties imposed by the venue due to misconduct will be the responsibility of the individual involved. *** ### 8️⃣ Liability Disclaimer By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that: * You voluntarily assume all risks associated with playing badminton. * **Badminton Lovers Dubai, its organisers, hosts, and volunteers are released from any liability**, claims, demands, or causes of action related to personal injury, loss, damage, or theft of belongings. ## ✅ Ready to Play? Click RSVP, send us a WhatsApp to confirm, and get ready to smash your way into Dubai’s most exciting badminton community!

House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee Have you ever dreamed of being part of the early dot-com energy — when ideas were raw, ambitious, and conversations could spark entire movements? Welcome to House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee — inspired by the spirit of early founder circles, when bold ideas spoke louder than decks. We gather a small circle of creative and tech leaders who think beyond borders, value authenticity and intelligent dialogue, and believe that growth begins with people and their ideas. No presentations. No ads. Just caffeine-fueled thinking. ☕ When: 6:30 PM 📍 Where: Starbucks, Emirates Towers Boulevard, Dubai 🎙️ Host: Kate Adiyak — Founder of House of Thinking Big Join the House and think bigger — together. Thinking Big Strategy Timeline 6:30 PM — Arrival & Networking 7:00 PM — Personal Problem Statement 7:30 PM — Resource Mapping 7:50 PM — Action Planning 8:00 PM — Closing No rush — Dubai traffic does Dubai traffic things. Join whenever you manage to escape the roads You will find me with a laptop and a cup of coffee [To keep in touch join my WhatsApp group ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Lnu5UhRArdXJTengnhqLhB?mode=hqrt3)

Come and have tea, meet new friends and engage in an open conversation about life's purpose, our collective responsibility towards humanity, our existence on this planet, diverse religious perspectives, spiritual insights, the interconnectedness of all people, gender equality, the convergence of faiths, and current world issues. Location: Burj Crown Building - Lounge Room on the 7th floor. Above "Baba Roma" restaurant. Free parking is available in the Dubai Opera House parking. 15 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd - Downtown Dubai [https://maps.app.goo.gl/h5NH1VNXSHCJC7bq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/h5NH1VNXSHCJC7bq5) Time: 19:30 for an 20:00 prompt start

•Costs 45 AED per person + ☕ Today's WhatsApp group https://chat.whatsapp.com/DBZEwX2AYkh8oCLjD9ZClc?mode=ac_c Follow our Instagram page https://instagram.com/winner_dinner0?utm_medium=copy_link Website: https://winner-dinner.com ADMIN: 055 577 8561 (NO CALLS WHATSAPP ONLY) Kindly note: Showing up without informing the admin or joining the WhatsApp group is strictly not allowed and could lead to a ban from the group.

### No pressure. No judgment. Just books, curiosity, and good company. **What to Expect** This is a relaxed, judgment-free book club created for people who love books, are getting back into reading, or simply enjoy being around curious minds. There is **no assigned book** and **no expectation to finish anything**. Read at your own pace — whether it’s one page, one chapter, or a book you’re still thinking about months later. Come share what you’re currently reading, something you’ve read before, or even a book you hope to start someday. The focus is not on how much you’ve read, but on the conversations, perspectives, and connections that unfold. We’ll begin with casual mingling, ease into a light icebreaker, and then let the discussion flow naturally. Expect thoughtful conversations, diverse viewpoints, and a welcoming mix of readers — fast, slow, and somewhere in between — all while enjoying coffee, tea, or your favorite beverage. **What to Bring** • Yourself • A book you’re reading, have read, or want to read • Curiosity and an open mind **Location** Stepup Ceramic Cafe @ Apex Atrium Building, Dubai Motorcity **Policy** • Attendees are required to avail any item from the menu • Please be respectful and listen when someone else is speaking **Parking** Free mall in front and back of the building **Contact** Rinku — WhatsApp +971 58 558 2680 This is a warm space to slow down, meet new people, exchange ideas, and feel inspired — without pressure, deadlines, or judgment.

Join us for a cozy, vibrant gathering of book lovers as we share our favorite reads and current page-turners! Whether you're into fiction, memoirs, thrillers, or poetry, there's a seat for every story here. Each meetup, we explore a new venue in the heart of Dubai—so you're not just discovering new books, but also new cafés and experiences. Over a delicious lunch, we dive into conversations about stories, authors, and life—connecting with awesome people along the way. No pressure to finish a book—just come with your curiosity, your appetite, and your love for a good story. ✨ *Great books. Great food. Great people.* We can’t wait to meet you! Location: **The Coffee Shop at Souk Al Bahar Downtown Dubai (nearby Dubai Mall)** Policy: You will have to avail any item from the menu and to listen when someone's turn to speak. Parking: Souk Al Bahar Parking Lot Contact: we have instagram **cece.events** and WhatsApp +971 55 416 9381

Love stories, but never find the time to read? Always wanted to start reading but don’t know where to begin? **A Few Good Pages** is a weekly short story circle where we slow down, read together, and have thoughtful relaxed discussions. No pressure, No prep! We meet **every Saturday** to read and discuss **one or two short stories**—quick reads that stay with you. Whether you’re a **wannabe reader** looking to get started, a **busy book lover** who wants to rebuild reading habit, or someone who enjoys **sharing perspectives on a great story**, you’ll fit right in. You don't need to prepare anything in advance - Just show up. Over the past year, we've read and discussed over **200+ short stories,** building a warm, reflective community that values attention, curiosity and consistency. Join our WhatsApp Group for updates: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IpIMc6c87W49FJIg1cRDJk?mode=hqrt2 **Cost & Membership** * First session : **Free** * Drop in : AED 30 per session * Membership options available for those who want to build a consistent reading habit. **Location** Location : L'eto Cafe, 1st floor, Mall of Emirates (D7 is the closest parking Entrance) Please update the RSVP if there's any change in your plans :-) Come for the stories, stay for the discussions!

Join us while we sip our favorite drinks, and share our thoughts in a relaxed, judgment-free space. And Connect with fellow readers who love to escape into stories! Current Read : The Wedding People By, Alison Espach (We provide an E-book) https://chat.whatsapp.com/IoHutnQVnp7ETRA8CqcHci?mode=gi_t Join the Whats App group, to stay updated on the meeting plans and to be part of any discussion or query. Whether you read a little or a lot, you’re welcome to join, share and repeat the joy of reading with us! 💛

Hello All if you like to join our what'app group to receive our monthly updates. Please join under this link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KriZ3ly93rsJz9LrD3bhVd Books and Booze Rana

**Welcome to DYC Book Club!** 📖✨ Location- PeachBrown Cafe, Cluster T, JLT If you're coming via Cab/ Car - please use "**Pullman Hotel, JLT**" as location. This group is for book lovers to share recommendations, discuss what we're reading, and connect over stories that inspire us. Incase you want to add friends to the group, please share this [link](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L1pC0svZ8iI0AXtmK16dxU?mode=ems_copy_t) with them. **How it works:** 🕑 **2–3 PM: Reading Session** Please place your order at the venue and quietly join our table — no introductions during the reading time. Bring any book you like. If you don’t have one, the café has books available too. 💬 **3 PM onwards: Book Discussion** Everyone will share a quick summary and key learnings from their book. Others can jump in with their thoughts, leading to meaningful conversations and a fun social connect. • Feel free to recommend books, ask for suggestions, or start a discussion around any book you're reading. • We occasionally organize casual book meetups or group reads — details will be posted here. **Rules:** • Keep discussions focused on books, reading, and literary topics. • Respect different reading tastes and opinions. • Use a spoiler alert if you're discussing major plot points. • No unrelated memes, spam, or promotions. • No unsolicited DMs without consent.

**I’m planning future book club meetups and would love your input. Please choose your top three from the list below—your picks will help decide what we read next!** **Book Options** *The Hong Kong Widow* – Kristen Loesch *American Spy* – Lauren Wilkinson *God of the Woods* – Liz Moore *Listen for the Lie* – Amy Tintera *The Swallows* – Lisa Lutz *The Drowning Kind* – Jennifer McMahon *The Eights* – Joanna Miller *The Quiet Librarian* – Allen Eskens Thanks so much for sharing your pick! Please **reply in the comments** with your top three. I can’t wait to see which books rise to the top and to discuss them together at our next meetups.

**Our March pick is *God of the Woods* by Liz Moore.** **This month’s novel is an award-winning literary mystery that blends family drama with psychological suspense. It explores women’s voices and relationships while delivering an exciting, eerie, and deeply suspenseful story. The book is 576 pages in print or 14 hours and 35 minutes on audiobook.** Early morning, August 1975: a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared. Barbara’s older brother similarly vanished fourteen years ago, never to be found. As a panicked search begins, a thrilling drama unfolds. Chasing down the layered secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow, Moore’s multi-threaded story invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances. It is Liz Moore’s most ambitious and wide-reaching novel yet.

**Our April novel is: *The Hong Kong Widow* by Kristen Loesch** **This month’s novel blends gothic atmosphere with historical fiction and chilling horror, set against the haunting backdrop of China. The book is 368 pages in print and 10 hours and 42 minutes on audiobook.** In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition in one of the city's most notorious haunted houses, pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges—she has every reason to refuse. Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life. It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge. Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about the last night she ever spent in that house—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .

This Month's Book: The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen. Join us for discussion at the Granville Public Library from 6 to 7pm. Follow us on Instagram: @granvillepridebookclub

Calling all founders, CEOs, lawyers, doctors, and entrepreneurs to join our special *Founder Edition* of Sip & Read meetup event. Let's sip on fine wine and discuss our first book **The 5AM Club- Own Your Morning Elevate Your Life, by Robin Sharma**. We will pair this book with our favorite wine at **Wine on High** and engage in thought-provoking discussions on startup businesses and entrepreneurship, and network with like-minded individuals in a cozy book club setting. Come prepared to discuss this month's book. At the end of each book club meeting, we will take next book and venue suggestions from the participants for the next meeting. Whether you are a book lover, women entrepreneur, or a content creator, this event is perfect for sharing ideas and insights with other funders and founders in the entrepreneurial world. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Sign up now to reserve your spot! *Fun fact! This meetup was established in 2015 and had over 1,000 members. I had to shut down operations while attending law school, but we're back!!*

**Our February novel is: Julia by Sandra Newman** **This month is a classic, dystopian, fiction, literary fiction, women’s fiction, and science fiction novel. The book is 394 pages in print and 14 hours and 20 minutes on audiobook.** **An imaginative, feminist, and brilliantly relevant-to-today retelling of Orwell’s 1984, from the point of view of Winston Smith’s lover, Julia, by critically acclaimed novelist Sandra Newman.** Julia Worthing is a mechanic, working in the Fiction Department at the Ministry of Truth. It’s 1984, and Britain (now called Airstrip One) has long been absorbed into the larger trans-Atlantic nation of Oceania. Oceania has been at war for as long as anyone can remember, and is ruled by an ultra-totalitarian Party, whose leader is a quasi-mythical figure called Big Brother. In short, everything about this world is as it is in Orwell’s 1984. All her life, Julia has known only Oceania, and, until she meets Winston Smith, she has never imagined anything else. She is an ideal citizen: cheerfully cynical, always ready with a bribe, piously repeating every political slogan while believing in nothing. She routinely breaks the rules, but also collaborates with the regime when necessary. Everyone likes Julia. Then one day she finds herself walking toward Winston Smith in a corridor and impulsively slips him a note, setting in motion the devastating, unforgettable events of the classic story. Julia takes us on a surprising journey through Orwell’s now-iconic dystopia, with twists that reveal unexpected sides not only to Julia, but to other familiar figures in the 1984 universe. This unique perspective lays bare our own world in haunting and provocative ways, just as the original did almost seventy-five years ago.