Every two months we organise an evening in which we discuss a particular book. Works include mainly new and older literary texts, as well as non-fiction about current social and political matters. The sessions are open to everyone and free of charge.

‘Homesick: Why I Live in a Shed’ is the story of a personal housing crisis and a country-wide one, grappling with class, economics, mental health and nature. Aged thirty-one, Catrina Davies rents a box-room in a house in Bristol, which she shares with four other adults and a child. Working several jobs and never knowing if she can make the rent, she feels like she’s breaking apart. She resolves to return to the landscape of her childhood, in the far west of Cornwall, and to make a tiny, dilapidated shed a home of her own. With the freedom to write, surf and make music, Catrina rebuilds the shed and, piece by piece, her own sense of self.

There will be no central presentation of the themes in the book. Instead, you’ll discuss your views, thoughts, favourite passages, points of critique and further suggestions informally in a small group.

The last 20 minutes of the evening are spent in deciding collectively which book we will read next. You’re welcome to join this discussion and to propose a book.

The discussion of ‘Homesick’ will take place on Wednesday 18th August at 20:00 hrs. The location will be decided on later, depending on corona rules. If you want to participate, please send an email to readinggroup(at)amsterdamalternative.nl