Dear readers, book group and book club enthusiasts:Reading is an art and a pleasure – and a necessity.  (“A room without books is like a body without a soul,” wrote Cicero.)  You all know that, and you walk the talk.I am in your debt.  Enthusiastic, committed (not to mention voracious) readers are the backbone of book publishing.  Without you, there is no me.And I want to support you.  I’d be delighted to join in on your lively conversations.If you live in the Willamette Valley and arrange to have 10 or more book group members or friends gather in someone's home, I will visit for free, schedule permitting.  (The book is available from amazon, powells & your local bookstore)If you live farther away and can have six or more friends gather in someone's home, I will visit via phone or computer, for free.  (The book is available from amazon, powells & your local bookstore. ) If you have a webcam and sign up with Skype (a free service), I will visit via a video call.  Your group can gather around your computer, and everyone will be able to see and talk to me.  If you don't have a webcam, I will visit via your speaker phone, and everyone will be able to talk with me.If you and a large group would like me to deliver a keynote speech or other major presentation, or if significant travel is required, please contact me to discuss schedule and fees.  I especially love talking with parent-teacher groups and working with tweens/teens in schools.You can start the ball rolling by emailing me at ljk@uoregon.edu.  Please put “Lauren Kessler book club” in the subject line.I hope to see you soon!