DIXFIELD – The Adult Reading Group of the Ludden Memorial Library met Feb. 1 for a monthly discussion of reading material. The group gathered in the Reading Nook of the Community Room and had coffee and tea.

Present were Carol Cantin, Mandy Parsons, Pat Wing, Nancy Tapley and the group coordinator, Diane Stanley.

The first novel discussed was “Sign Talker” by Thom, historical fiction with a background dealing with the “other Indian” who assisted Lewis and Clark on their expedition. The guide had a French father but was raised by the Indians. He knew sign language and was a significant help to Lewis and Clark, but because of his background, he was largely omitted from history.

The second novel for discussion was “Rainy Days and Starry Nights,” a new arrival on the bookshelf. Maeve Binchy, the author, has a history of being a teacher and working at several other occupations, giving her a variety of experiences from which to draw.

The story takes place in Greece and deals with four tourists who traveled to the top of a mountain and were stranded, as there is a huge fire at the bottom of the mountain and no one is able to go up the mountain for them. The story shows how they grow together as a group during this ordeal. One of Maeve Binchy’s older books, “Scarlet Feather,” is being made into a movie.

“On Thin Ice” by Adair was given a negative review. The story content was said to be full of swear words and descriptive sex. The background of the story dealt with the Iditarod. The author did extensive research into the subject and care of dogs, to her credit. Author Sue Henry also uses Alaska as her background and was mentioned as an author of choice.

The fourth book of the Left Behind Series, “Soul Harvest,” was discussed as one of the group is working her way through the series.

“The Little Shop on Blossom Street” by Macomber had been discussed by the group, but was read again by another member who also enjoyed the novel. It deals with four people who gathered to take knitting lessons and shows how their lives intertwine. It was described as a fun read.

“The Red Tent” by Anita Diamant was discussed. It depicts the women of the Bible in a fictional story, based on biblical background.

“Wreck the Halls” is by Graves, a Maine author who uses Eastport as her background. It was described as an excellent mystery and was enjoyed by the reader.

“Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress” by Dai tells of the trials and tribulations during Mao’s cultural revolution when hundreds of thousands were exiled to the countryside to be “re-educated.” It is a small book, published in 2001. It was considered a great read.

The group adjourned at noon and will meet again at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 1. Anyone who likes to read is welcome at the free gathering. One does not have to be a member of the library to participate.