English Books & Literature

Notre meet-up réunit une fois par semaine anglophiles et francophiles de plus de cinquante ans afin de discuter de tout et de rien. Le but est d'offrir la possibilité aux uns et aux autres de pratiquer la langue dans laquelle ils souhaiteraient se perfectionner dans un cadre convivial. Nos directives sont de s'amuser et de respecter les différents points de vue et antécédents personnels. Il est interdit d'insulter ou de dénigrer d'autres membres en raison de leurs antécédents personnels. Le meet-up se termine précisément à 18h. Si vous souhaitez rester après 18h, veuillez vous déplacer dans une autre partie du café afin que la direction comprenne bien que la réunion est terminée. Nous vous invitons à prendre au moins une boisson pour soutenir le cafe. Si vous arrivez tard, vous pouvez commander au bar et le café vous apportera votre commande. Our meet-up group meets once a week. We are English and French speakers of a "certain age" (over 50), and we meet to talk about everything and nothing. The goal is to offer each of us the chance to practice whichever language he/she is learning, or just to have a conversation in either language with a friendly group in a relaxing atmosphere. Our guidelines are to have fun and to be respectful of different points of view and personal backgrounds. Insulting or disparaging other members because of their personal background is not permitted. Our meet-up ends promptly at 6pm. If you wish to remain after 6 pm, please move to a different section of the café so it is clear to management that the meet-up has ended. Please buy at least a drink to support the café. If you arrive late, you can order at the bar and they will bring your order to you.

Come practice your English with us! This is a casual get-together where native English speakers who live in the area would love to connect with you and have meaningful conversations.

**Welcome to the Paris Poetry Circle!** Now in its 30th year, our English-language poetry reading group continues to bring together lovers of verse and thought in the heart of Paris. 🎉 Join us this Wednesday evening for a gathering of minds and voices as we read and reflect on poems that move, challenge, and illuminate — all shared over some quiet drinks. 🫖☕️🥤🧉🍹 We seek poems that are clear yet profound, sweet or serious — those that carry us forward and help us make sense of the world. We steer clear of the obscure or needlessly complex; we value clarity over cleverness, sincerity over show. Each poem is read anonymously to begin with, without revealing the author, allowing space for open, unbiased interpretation. We then explore it together — carefully, curiously — to uncover what lies beneath the surface. After the meeting, we write a letter of thanks to the living poets we have read at the group, to thank and congratulate them. We revere all the poets of this world. The group is small — usually six or seven thoughtful individuals, up to a maximum of ten. The conversation is warm, intelligent, and grounded. There is no performance, no pressure to contribute, and no cost. Only a shared pursuit of insight, beauty, and fellowship. If that resonates with you, we’d love to welcome you. Bring a poem, or simply bring yourself. 📚✨

2e titre positif pour cette année : L’amour et les forêts d'Eric Reinhardt (car on avait 2 gagnants pour Janvier). Bonne lecture!!!

**Step into the laid-back charm of Cosy Cave Conversations**, a Parisian philosophy chat that's more relaxed than a cat in a sunbeam 🐈 🌞 Gather with a bunch of easygoing souls, share thoughts on the good life and its mysteries, enjoy a beverage, and have a good laugh. A few things to be aware of: * **Please** **don't show up without a spot** (we aim to keep it cosy and we always have a waiting list these days — check if you’re on the list or the waiting list) * If it's your first event, it's essential you **turn up early, or at the latest on time (<7pm)** so you understand how it works, what the topic is and don't interrupt the session * The **session runs from 7pm to 8:30pm** where we focus on the discussion, but don't worry, you'll have a chance to socialise, introduce yourselves and continue the chat after the session. **If you’re running late** (the curtains are closed), that’s okay, but please wait to join us in the break rather than interrupting the session. * Please read the **tips below** for a good session before coming along **How does it work?** We embrace the café-philo method — proposing intriguing topics on the night (up to 3), choosing one together, and diving into everything from consciousness, community, death and god, while managing to keep it light and easy 🦦 **Forget the stiff atmosphere**, we're all about small groups (\~10 people) and unpretentious chats with no homework required. No need for a philosophy degree, just bring your open mind and a dash of curiosity. **Join us every Wednesday 19h-20h30 at Les Acolytes** — because pondering the profound is better with good company (and a pint). See you there! 🎉 A few tips for a great session: * come with an **open and curious mind** 🧠 * **prioritise listening to others and asking questions** without interrupting or long monologues 👂 * we put a strong **emphasise on giving everyone a chance to contribute to the discussion**, so try and be aware of how much space and time you take up when speaking 🐻‍❄️ * we prioritise **intellectual accessibility**: this is not an academic group therefore we ask to keep any philosophy jargon to a minimum and instead explain any concepts in plain english 🤠 * we are an **apolitical group** that focuses on discussing and exploring philosophical ideas without endorsing or aligning with any specific political or religous ideologies. Our aim is to encourage open, unbiased dialogue centered on philosophical inquiry within a safe and respectful environment 🐥

✅ Do you want to improve your English Speaking skills? ✅ Do you want more confidence speaking to friends and colleagues in English? ✅ Do you want to speak and learn from a native teacher? ✅ Tired of boring, traditional English classes? My name is Belinda and I'm a professional and experienced English teacher. I have students throughout the world and can help you with whatever English needs you have in the following areas: ✅ Business meeting and presentation preparation ✅ CV review, analysis, correction and advice ✅ Interview preparation ✅ Grammar, Vocabulary and Conversation These 60 minutes classes will help you gain confidence, expand your vocabulary and improve your pronunciation. ✅ Small group weekend classes also available (2 or 5 hour immersion classes) What do I have to do? ✍ Confirm your attendance by WhatsApp: +34 645 598 927 💵 Cost: 25€ ⌚ When: Classes available 7 days a week 🕖 Duration: 60 minutes 📍 Where: Online 👥 Group Size: Just you!

🇷🇺 🍾 От 20 до 30 участников из разных стран 🍷 Мы встречаемся для культурного обмена или практики иностранного языка. 🥂 Количество участников ограничено для удобства пользователей. Адрес предоставляется только участникам с годовой членской картой. Членская карта предлагает особую функцию: выберите номер стикера и получите бесплатный шот в баре после общения с другими участниками группы. Стоимость карты составляет 5 евро. Карту можно приобрести здесь: [https://bit.ly/apero-linguistique2025](https://bit.ly/apero-linguistique2025) 🇺🇦 : Якщо ви українець, то вам також ласкаво просимо. 🇵🇱 : Jeżeli jesteś Polakiem, również jesteś mile widziany.

New joiner discount for first 3 classes! Join us for **Vinyassa Yoga** sessions in the heart of **Paris 7eme**. This **in-person** class is perfect for all levels, taught **in English**. Experience a blend of breath and movement that leaves you feeling energised and relaxed. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned yogi, come stretch, breathe, and connect with a friendly community. Rooted in Vinyasa, my classes offer a chance to step away and find a place of calm. Offered in English, they are dynamic but for all levels from beginners through to intermediate practitioners. Music moves through each session, gently supporting and uplifting the practice. Classes are joyful, inviting you to connect mind and body and to return to the present moment. The studio provides a refined and peaceful setting to practice, unwind, and reconnect. The studio is fully equipped with changing rooms, showers, lockers, and welcoming communal spaces to meet and connect before and after class. Please book online to get 26% discount for 2026 on your first 3 classes. Regular class cost is 21 euro after that. Please visit [www.mcoyoga.com](https://www.mcoyoga.com "https://www.mcoyoga.com") to BOOK.

Join us in Paris for a thoughtful evening of conversation over coffee, as we delve into the world of dystopian literature, works that challenge, disturb, and illuminate the societies we live in. From *1984* to *Brave New World*, *The Handmaid’s Tale*, etc, these stories explore power, freedom, human identity, and the consequences of human ambition. This is a themed book club with no required reading. Bring your reflections, favorite quotes, or any dystopian books that have inspired or unsettled you. You’re also welcome to bring a physical copy for our group book photo tradition.📖 Bring along your favorite quotes, reflections, your journal full of notes from your reading, or book recommendations you want to share with everyone! **P.S.** I’ll reach out before the event to confirm attendance. Please cancel in advance if plans change so I can adjust the reservation accordingly. Merci\~ 🌹

The *Iliad* is one of two major ancient Greek epic poems attributed to Homer. It is one of the oldest extant works of literature still widely read by modern audiences. Like the *Odyssey*, the poem is divided into 24 books and was written in dactylic hexameter. It contains 15,693 lines in its most widely accepted version. The Iliad is often regarded as the first substantial piece of European literature and is a central part of the Epic Cycle. Set toward the end of the Trojan War, a 10-year siege of the city of Troy by a coalition of Mycenaean Greek states, the poem depicts significant events in the war's final weeks. In particular, it traces the anger of Achilles, a celebrated warrior, from a fierce quarrel between him and King Agamemnon, to the death of the Trojan prince Hector. The narrative moves between wide battleground scenes and more personal interactions. Critical themes in the poem include kleos (glory), pride, fate, and wrath. Despite being predominantly known for its tragic and serious themes, the poem also contains instances of comedy and laughter. The poem is frequently described as a "heroic" epic, centred around issues such as war, violence, and the heroic code. It contains detailed descriptions of ancient warfare, including battle tactics and equipment. However, it also explores the social and domestic side of ancient culture in scenes behind the walls of Troy and in the Greek camp. Additionally, the Olympian gods play a major role in the poem, aiding their favoured warriors on the battlefield and intervening in personal disputes.

For the meeting in February, we'll read and discuss **The Genetic Lottery: Why DNA Matters for Social Equality by Kathryn Paige Harden** Description from Goodreads: A provocative and timely case for how the science of genetics can help create a more just and equal society. In recent years, scientists like Kathryn Paige Harden have shown that DNA makes us different, in our personalities and in our health--and in ways that matter for educational and economic success in our current society. In *The Genetic Lottery*, Harden introduces readers to the latest genetic science, dismantling dangerous ideas about racial superiority and challenging us to grapple with what equality really means in a world where people are born different. Weaving together personal stories with scientific evidence, Harden shows why our refusal to recognize the power of DNA perpetuates the myth of meritocracy, and argues that we must acknowledge the role of genetic luck if we are ever to create a fair society. Reclaiming genetic science from the legacy of eugenics, this groundbreaking book offers a bold new vision of a society where everyone thrives, regardless of how one fares in the genetic lottery. **\*New to book club? You're welcome to join our discussion. We'll discuss our thoughts on the book and share related topics.** **\*Discussions held in English**

Pour notre rencontre de février, nous lisons l'oeuvre*Tango de Satan* du grand auteur Hongrois László Krasznahorkai, qui a reçu le prix Nobel de littérature en 2025. Une plaine hongroise balayée par le vent et l’incessante pluie d’automne. Dans une ferme collective à l’abandon, quelques habitants végètent, s’épiant et complotant les uns contre les autres, lorsqu’une rumeur annonce le retour de deux autres personnages que l’on croyait morts. Certains y voient l’arrivée d’un messie, d’autres redoutent celle de Satan. Ce roman, conçu comme un tango où les danseurs viendraient les uns après les autres sur la piste de danse, nous plonge dans un voyage poétique, une quête de vérité emplie d’humanité sur la place de notre existence face au Temps. Merci d'avoir lu le livre avant la rencontre afin de partager vos impressions, sentiments et pensées. À la fin de la séance, nous choisirons collectivement la prochaine lecture et pour, ceux qui veulent, nous poursuivrons la discussion autour d’un petit dîner dans un restaurant.

Join us for our women's book club meet-up! Food and drinks can be purchased as you wish. \*You will need to confirm your attendance through WhatsApp prior to the event. I will reach out to you personally though messages to add you to the WhatsApp chat\* Book details: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43890641-hamnet?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=Y6wLHq7P8h&rank=1 Location to be announced.

Anton Tchekhov La Salle no 6 L'évêque 1892 et 1902 les deux font environ 140 pages ou moins, en fonction de l'édition Editions Gallimard, "La Steppe / Salle 6 / L'Évêque (p. 5)" *La Salle no 6 est considérée comme le sommet de son art. Ilia Repine a écrit : «…On ne comprend même pas comment une histoire aussi simple, sans prétention, voire pauvre en contenu, peut donner naissance à une idée aussi irrésistible, profonde et colossale de l'humanité. <…> Je suis impressionné, fasciné <…> Merci, merci, merci ! Quelle force vous avez !... »* *L'évêque explore l'imminence de la mort. Ivan Bounine écrivait que cette nouvelle était « écrite de manière extraordinaire. Seul celui qui s'adonne lui-même à la littérature et qui a lui-même connu ces tourments infernaux peut saisir toute la beauté de cette œuvre ». Bounine lui-même, Tolstoï et Kouprine considéraient cette nouvelle comme l'une des meilleures œuvres de Tchekhov.* VERSION PAPIER La Salle no 6 et L'Évêque sont disponibles en édition Folio (Gallimard) (ensemble) : voir une photo de la couverture ci-dessous. Sinon, ils peuvent se trouver dans des recueils de ses nouvelles, surtout La Salle no 6. LIVRE ÉLECTRONIQUE En format électronique : la même édition Folio existe sur Kindle, et il y a des PDF libres de droits. L'évêque https://sources.ebooksgratuits.com/tchekhov_homme_a_l_etui_ocr.pdf Salle 6 https://sources.ebooksgratuits.com/tchekhov_salle_6_ocr.pdf **PRIX** 10 euros à régler par Wero ou sur place. Les 10 euros servent à couvrir \- l'abonnement sur le site Meetup \(200 euros par an\)\, \- la promotion sur d'autres sites \(quelques fois par an je paie l'abonnement sur TMS\, 20 euros par mois\)\, \- l'achat des livres si nécessaire\, \- récompenser le temps et les efforts d'organisation \(je prépare beaucoup d'informations sur le livre et l'écrivain\)\. **COMMENT NOUS TROUVER ?** On se retrouve à l'intérieur du café TOURVILLE situé à 1 Pl. de l'École Militaire. On s'installe d'habitude à l'étage.

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

**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 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.

Welcome, readers! Our February read is **_1984 by George Orwell._** In 1984, George Orwell imagines a world where the government watches everyone, rewrites reality, and punishes even private thoughts. Winston Smith dares to question this system, believing that truth and love might still exist. His rebellion draws him into a chilling struggle against a power that knows him better than he knows himself. The novel leaves readers asking whether freedom is possible when reality itself can be controlled. 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 meeting will be an open discussion about the book "an Immense World" by Ed Yong

Join us for The Fisherman by John Langan. In upstate New York, in the woods around Woodstock, Dutchman's Creek flows out of the Ashokan Reservoir. Steep-banked, fast-moving, it offers the promise of fine fishing, and of something more, a possibility too fantastic to be true. When Abe and Dan, two widowers who have found solace in each other's company and a shared passion for fishing, hear rumors of the Creek, and what might be found there, the remedy to both their losses, they dismiss it as just another fish story. Soon, though, the men find themselves drawn into a tale as deep and old as the Reservoir. It's a tale of dark pacts, of long-buried secrets, and of a mysterious figure known as Der Fisher: the Fisherman. It will bring Abe and Dan face to face with all that they have lost, and with the price they must pay to regain it.