Book & Social Club Okanagan
this month’s feature
THE WOMEN
By Kristin Hannah
Women can be heroes. When twenty-year-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. Raised in the sun-drenched, idyllic world of Southern California and sheltered by her conservative parents, she has always prided herself on doing the right thing. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path.
As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is over-whelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. Each day is a gamble of life and death, hope and betrayal; friendships run deep and can be shattered in an instant. In war, she meets―and becomes one of―the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost.
But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends. The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam.
The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, The Women is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will come to define an era.
next books on the shelf
By chris whitaker
By ABRAHAM VERGHESE
What is Apricus?
Apricus is not your average book club. It is a community of like-minded people who all have a story. This group comes together to help others and give back to our community. Yes, of course, we read books, gossip about them, and have epic social events too, but we love helping others just as much. Join Our Book & Social Club: Here’s How It Works
Our annual membership fee is $180, plus a $10 administration fee, which renews every October 1. Here’s what’s included:
Charity Fund ($60)
A portion of your membership directly supports local charitable foundations. This year, we’re partnering with Mamas for Mamas to sponsor families in need for Christmas and beyond. When donating to an established charity, members may be eligible to receive tax receipts for their contributions. To ensure this, we require up-to-date contact information.
Social Fund ($120)
The remaining amount funds six bi-monthly social events (just $20 per event) where we eat, drink, discuss the book, and enjoy each other’s company. Events are held at various locations from Lake Country to Penticton and sometimes include fun themes and surprises! And no, we don't care if you read the hard copy book, listen to the audiobook, review transcripts or even have someone to re-enact it for you - you are all welcome. The social pot will fund a drink and appetizers, so just show up and have fun with like-minded people.
Administration Fee ($10)
This small fee supports our website, domain, and other administrative costs.
Flexible Fee Structure
If you join partway through the year, your fee will be adjusted. For example:
• Joining for the fourth book? Pay $130 ($60 for charity, $60 for three events, and $10 membership).
We’ve made it easy for you to connect, give back, and enjoy meaningful social experiences. Join today and be part of something special!
my story
My name is Meaghan. Since the age of 19, I have been in the emergency field, helping others. First, I became a firefighter in my small town. After that, I moved into Search and Rescue, where I spent my weekends hiking up mountains to rescue people. Then, I decided to join the RCMP and become a police officer. Ten years later, here I am today. I won’t say that the career choices I have made were easy on me; I have suffered from PTSD for several years now. But before you start to feel too upset, this is where my story—and the story of this book club—begins.
My passion for helping people has always taken first place in my life, but the way I have chosen to do it has also taken a toll on my mental health. I started going for long walks, and one day, I decided to listen to an audiobook. Before anyone gets upset that I listen to audiobooks instead of reading hard copies, let me explain: I am a mom, I am healing, I am busy, and I am doing my best. Let me tell you, though, this was LIFE-CHANGING. I was getting lost in fiction novels every month and mourning the end of each one. I found a beautiful hobby that brought me out of some low moments.
I realized that there is nothing better than being able to talk with someone after reading an amazing novel—getting their point of view, crying over the characters together, and then watching the movies and complaining that they are nothing like the book! I started planning how I could incorporate my love of fiction novels, the support of others, and still help my community. Then, out of nowhere, Apricus was imagined.
upcoming events
Social Event-
THE WOMEN,
MAY 25 1-4PM
Social Event-
ALL THE COLORS OF THE DARK , JULY 27 6-9PM
Social Event-
THE COVENANT OF WATER, SEPT 21 4-7PM
my story
My name is Meaghan. Since the age of 19, I have been in the emergency field, helping others. First, I became a firefighter in my small town. After that, I moved into Search and Rescue, where I spent my weekends hiking up mountains to rescue people. Then, I decided to join the RCMP and become a police officer. Ten years later, here I am today. I won’t say that the career choices I have made were easy on me; I have suffered from PTSD for several years now. But before you start to feel too upset, this is where my story—and the story of this book club—begins.
My passion for helping people has always taken first place in my life, but the way I have chosen to do it has also taken a toll on my mental health. I started going for long walks, and one day, I decided to listen to an audiobook. Before anyone gets upset that I listen to audiobooks instead of reading hard copies, let me explain: I am a mom, I am healing, I am busy, and I am doing my best. Let me tell you, though, this was LIFE-CHANGING. I was getting lost in fiction novels every month and mourning the end of each one. I found a beautiful hobby that brought me out of some low moments.
I realized that there is nothing better than being able to talk with someone after reading an amazing novel—getting their point of view, crying over the characters together, and then watching the movies and complaining that they are nothing like the book! I started planning how I could incorporate my love of fiction novels, the support of others, and still help my community. Then, out of nowhere, Apricus was imagined.
Questions & Answers
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What if I can't attend a social event?Don’t worry! Catch up on social media, but please note that your portion of the social fund will still be used for the event.
-
Is the club & membership fee refundable?Club & Membership fees are non-refundable, as they support both charitable donations and pre-planned social events. Exception: Cancellations, in written notice, within 30 days of original sign up will be entitled to full refund.
-
Do I need to finish the book to attend events?No, you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t finished the book. Engage in discussions, network, and build friendships regardless of your reading progress.
-
What type of books do we read?We focus on a variety of fiction genres, including romance, thrillers, historical novels, and more.
-
Can I suggest books?Absolutely! Each year, we invite members to submit their book wish lists through our contact form. We will use your suggestions and work through the books together.
this month’s feature
THE WOMEN
By KRISTIN HANNAH
Women can be heroes. When twenty-year-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. Raised in the sun-drenched, idyllic world of Southern California and sheltered by her conservative parents, she has always prided herself on doing the right thing. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path.
As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is over-whelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. Each day is a gamble of life and death, hope and betrayal; friendships run deep and can be shattered in an instant. In war, she meets―and becomes one of―the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost.
But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends. The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam.
The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, The Women is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will come to define an era.
next books on the shelf
By ABRAHAM VERGHESE
By CHRIS WHITAKER
Questions & Answers
-
What if I can't attend a social event?Don’t worry! Catch up on social media, but please note that your portion of the social fund will still be used for the event.
-
Is the club & membership fee refundable?Club & Membership fees are non-refundable, as they support both charitable donations and pre-planned social events. Exception: Cancellations, in written notice, within 30 days of original sign up will be entitled to full refund.
-
Do I need to finish the book to attend events?No, you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t finished the book. Engage in discussions, network, and build friendships regardless of your reading progress.
-
What type of books do we read?We focus on a variety of fiction genres, including romance, thrillers, historical novels, and more.
-
Can I suggest books?Absolutely! Each year, we invite members to submit their book wish lists through our contact form. We will use your suggestions and work through the books together.
my story
My name is Meaghan. Since the age of 19, I have been in the emergency field, helping others. First, I became a firefighter in my small town. After that, I moved into Search and Rescue, where I spent my weekends hiking up mountains to rescue people. Then, I decided to join the RCMP and become a police officer. Ten years later, here I am today. I won’t say that the career choices I have made were easy on me; I have suffered from PTSD for several years now. But before you start to feel too upset, this is where my story—and the story of this book club—begins.
My passion for helping people has always taken first place in my life, but the way I have chosen to do it has also taken a toll on my mental health. I started going for long walks, and one day, I decided to listen to an audiobook. Before anyone gets upset that I listen to audiobooks instead of reading hard copies, let me explain: I am a mom, I am healing, I am busy, and I am doing my best. Let me tell you, though, this was LIFE-CHANGING. I was getting lost in fiction novels every month and mourning the end of each one. I found a beautiful hobby that brought me out of some low moments.
I realized that there is nothing better than being able to talk with someone after reading an amazing novel—getting their point of view, crying over the characters together, and then watching the movies and complaining that they are nothing like the book! I started planning how I could incorporate my love of fiction novels, the support of others, and still help my community. Then, out of nowhere, Apricus was imagined.
this month’s feature
THE WOMEN
By KRISTIN HANNAH
Women can be heroes. When twenty-year-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. Raised in the sun-drenched, idyllic world of Southern California and sheltered by her conservative parents, she has always prided herself on doing the right thing. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path.
As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is over-whelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. Each day is a gamble of life and death, hope and betrayal; friendships run deep and can be shattered in an instant. In war, she meets―and becomes one of―the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost.
But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends. The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam.
The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, The Women is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will come to define an era.
next books on the shelf
by ABRAHAM VERGHESE
By CHRIS WHITAKER