This was very enjoyable evening which created a lot of interaction, conversation, and feedback.
We began with the opportunity to peruse and purchase the books of published club members. It was eye – opening to view the number and scope of the books on display. 
Including both fiction and non – fiction and covering all age ranges – children, young adult, and adult (no elderly I notice) and genres. There were poetry, fantasy, crime, and adventure – surely something for every taste.
It certainly reflected the wealth and diversity of talent and effort within the club. It also demonstrated the ability for us all to be able to appreciate, share and learn from so many areas of writing.
In between the sale events we had our Sharing Circle. It allowed the provision of feedback directly to those who brought their writings.
Six groups of four listened or read, up to four pieces of writing. After each one there was an opportunity to get direct feedback and discussion with the author. It was a unique way of presenting our work and felt personal, constructive, and immediate. The opportunity to go to different groups and discuss with nine other people offering a range of views and opinions was greatly beneficial.
As I had brought a story, I can say that from that perspective it was helpful and a safe space. For those who were reading the work there were the opportunities to hear a range of topics and styles. 
From a reading of a poem of the sea and its rhythm’s, a story on the treatment of women in the 1940 – 1970s, a memory of studying spiders at Loch Lomond and several others; it was a diverse range. 
The conversation across the room after each piece was animated and enthusiastic with lots of discussion going on.
The evening finished with a lovely but poignant poem from Carolyn O’Hara about helping and loneliness, as our last word to round off a remarkably interesting and entertaining evening.
Pat Lerpiniere
