As of now, the History Book Club of NYC has become the Asia Book Club of NYC.

We will read and discuss works of fiction by Asian authors (with Asian settings), as well as non-fiction books about Asian history and current events. My thought is that in order to begin to know and understand a country or a region, to get a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the people, their culture, their country - it makes sense to read both the “hard stuff” (history, etc.), and “soft stuff” (novels, etc.). Of course it is a hopelessly broad ‘category’, but our book club’s previous incarnation – all history books – was even wider! I think for a general interest, layperson audience, this approach, albeit dauntingly broad, will be fun and perhaps lead us to places we might not otherwise have gone.

Why am I doing this? Well, to be perfectly honest, my reason for revamping/starting the Asia Book Club is simply because of my own personal interest. I lived in Asia for 6 years and counting that plus the years I've traveled there for business and pleasure - I've been living in or traveling regularly to Asia for about 15 years. As an investment manager, I believe there are few more important things to focus on over the coming years then Asia. And as a Buddhist, I practice a religion (for lack of a better word) begun in Asia 2500 years ago. So as a result of all these interactions, I’ve become more and more engaged and intrigued with “Asia”. As I’ve read more and more over the years – initially mostly history but more recently novels by Asian authors (as well as watching more Asian films) - I’ve decided with this new club to focus my leisure activity on what has become a lifelong passion.

Anyway, I hope those of you who've been coming regularly aren't too disappointed at the demise of the History Book Club and will give the new club a try. For those who haven't been coming for whatever reason, maybe this is a good reason to start. All comments or thoughts - good, bad, or otherwise - are welcome.

Look for the announcement of our first Asia Book Club meeting in your email box shortly.

Best regards,
Joe