AIFA Reading Society kicked off its physical book club activities for the year with a delightful session on Saturday, March 23, 2024, held at the Whyte Cleon Limited venue in Victoria Island, Lagos. It was a gathering filled with thoughtful discussion, and of course, plenty of insights into the chosen book of the month.
After much anticipation and lively debate, the members of the book club collectively voted to explore the pages of “The List” by Yomi Adegoke for this quarter’s read. With the decision made, the group delved into the narrative, eager to explore its themes and characters.
The book club session commenced with warm greetings and introductions, setting the stage for an engaging discourse. Ms. Chinazom, AIFA’s Programme Officer, provided a succinct overview of the book, highlighting its central characters, Ola and Michael, and highlighted the themes of betrayal, cancel culture, and the influence of the internet on societal issues such as abuse.
As the discussion unfolded, diverse perspectives emerged, enriching the dialogue. One notable viewpoint centered on Ola’s decision to proceed with her marriage despite the complexities of her situation. Kafayat astutely pointed out the financial investment Ola had made in the wedding preparations, suggesting that this may have influenced her choice to move forward with the marriage after discovering Michael’s name on the list of abusers.
Furthermore, the book club members uncovered the concept of hypocrisy within the narrative, particularly in Ola’s advocacy against named abusers juxtaposed with her own reluctance to confront similar issues within her personal life. This introspective analysis led to insightful reflections on the complexities of human behaviour and moral judgment.
Amidst the discourse, a member advocated for extending grace to characters like Michael, emphasising the importance of recognising and encouraging personal growth and redemption. This sentiment sparked a thoughtful discussion on empathy and forgiveness, underscoring the nuanced layers of the book’s themes.
In essence, the first physical book club session of the year proved to be an enriching and thought-provoking experience, as members engaged in lively discussions, challenged perspectives, and gleaned valuable insights from “The List.”
As the Society looks forward to future gatherings, it remains committed to fostering a community of avid readers and critical thinkers. Stay tuned for more captivating reads and stimulating discussions in the months to come.
