
Vroman’s Fiction Reading Group in Pasadena has selected “Booth” by Karen Joy Fowler as its August pick, delving into the family history of John Wilkes Booth. The novel, which was longlisted for the 2022 Booker Prize, examines the theatrical Booth family’s saga against the backdrop of pre-Civil War America.
The reading group will meet on Wednesday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m. in the Vroman’s Bookstore’s Meeting Room, located at 709 E. Colorado Blvd. Suite 120 in Pasadena. This monthly event, held on the 4th Wednesday of every month, is free and open to the public, offering literature enthusiasts an opportunity to discuss Fowler’s work.
“Booth” spans several decades, beginning in 1822 when the secret Booth family moves to a cabin near Baltimore. The story follows the lives of Junius Booth, a renowned Shakespearean actor, and his 10 children.
Fowler’s novel has garnered critical acclaim since its release. Bill Cusumano of Square Books in Oxford, Mississippi, praised the book, saying, “The Booth family dominated 19th century American stages, but are known for the despicable actions of John Wilkes.”
The author explores the family’s rise to theatrical prominence and the scandals that plagued them. Fowler also presents a nuanced portrait of a country grappling with change as it approaches the Civil War.
“Booth” has been recognized as a Best Book of the Year by several publications, including Real Simple, AARP, USA Today, NPR, and Virginia Living. The novel has been lauded for its meticulous research and engaging narrative style.
Critics have noted the book’s relevance to contemporary issues. NPR described it as a “gripping novel” with resonance to present-day America. The Los Angeles Review of Books suggested the story offers “a window on the modern United States.”
Fowler, known for her bestselling novels “The Jane Austen Book Club” and “We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves” (which won the PEN/Faulkner Award), brings her trademark dark humor to this historical narrative. The Boston Globe called the book “a massive achievement” that weaves together history, family culture, and human cruelties.
Additional praise has come from various sources. The New York Times Book Review noted the novel is “vignetted at the edges, full of portents, omens and mysterious reversals of fate,” while the Washington Post commended Fowler’s “riveting saga” exploring familial devotion and sorrow.
The selection of “Booth” for the Vroman’s Fiction Reading Group provides an opportunity for readers to engage with a work that bridges historical events and current societal concerns. The discussion may explore themes of family, fame, and the impact of individual actions on history.
Vroman’s bookstore, a Pasadena institution, continues its tradition of fostering literary discussions with this event, which is open to the public.
For more information, visit https://www.vromansbookstore.com/event/vromans-fiction-reading-group-11.