In a quiet corner of Bridlewood, perhaps at a neighbor's dining table adorned with wine glasses and small plates of appetizers, or at a reserved table at the Bridlewood Golf Club, a cherished tradition unfolds monthly. The Bridlewood Book Club, now entering its second decade, has become much more than a literary discussion group—it's a tapestry of friendships, perspectives, and shared experiences that has weathered even a global pandemic.

"It gives us a chance to find out true thoughts on common life themes rather than sharing superficial niceties," says Tammy Nguyen, the club's current organizer and a local anesthesiologist. This sentiment echoes throughout the club's history, which began nearly ten years ago when Tracy Case recognized a need for an evening book club for working women in the neighborhood.

The club's leadership has passed through several dedicated hands over the years. After Tracy's initial establishment, Kim Durham took the reins for a few years. Then came Elizabeth Cline-Janowski's turn at the helm, guiding the group through perhaps its most challenging period—the COVID-19 pandemic.

"When COVID happened, I opened my patio for anyone comfortable meeting," Elizabeth recalls. "Typically it was just three of us meeting consistently at that time. We would bring our own snacks and drinks and spread out on my patio." This determination to maintain their literary connection, even when reduced to just a few dedicated members, speaks volumes about the club's importance to its participants.

After Elizabeth returned to full-time work at Downing Middle School, Kim briefly resumed leadership before Tammy stepped up about three years ago, continuing the tradition of passing the torch to ensure the club's longevity.

What makes this group special is the diversity of its members. "We have all ages in our group from young moms to empty nesters. It gives the group a range of perspectives," explains Vickie Koath, a retired professional originally from Chicago who joined when the club first formed.

Elizabeth echoes this sentiment: "It's just a great group of ladies from all walks of life. Some have young children and several have grandchildren, but we all love to read books."

While the Facebook group boasts over 80 members, a core group of 10-15 women attend regularly, creating an intimate atmosphere that fosters meaningful discussion. The monthly gatherings rotate between members' homes and local restaurants, creating variety in their meeting venues.

The Bridlewood Book Club isn't confined to one genre or style. "It's great to get out of your comfort zone and read books you might never have picked up," Elizabeth says. The selection process has evolved over time—sometimes the host chooses, other times they've used Facebook polls or curated lists of bestsellers or books soon to be adapted for screen.

Tammy describes their typical discussions: "We come with questions suggested from online sources or from the author to help guide us as we delve into the interesting facets of the book." Their conversations often extend beyond literary analysis to thought experiments about casting choices for potential film adaptations or how the themes relate to their own lives.

One particularly memorable meeting centered around Britney Spears' memoir, which drew unusually high attendance and sparked animated discussion. This willingness to explore various genres—from fiction and biographies to contemporary memoirs—keeps the club's reading list fresh and engaging.

Perhaps the most beloved tradition is their annual Christmas book exchange. Each member brings a wrapped book with a written hint about its contents. "Then it's like a white elephant exchange," Elizabeth explains. "We go around and pick a book or steal." This festive gathering typically takes place at a local restaurant—most recently at Sip N Savor—though one year a member hosted at home with catered food.

The club also enjoys celebrating when books they've read are adapted for the screen. "I love it when we read a book that then has a movie adaptation, because we all go see it together!" Elizabeth shares.

The Bridlewood Book Club's influence extends beyond literary discussions. They've collected and donated books to a senior living center, gathered children's books for those in need, and supported members' Girl Scout cookie sales.

But perhaps their most significant contribution is the sense of belonging they foster. "It brings us closer in our community, which has been especially true after COVID," Vickie notes.

For Tammy, the value lies in the deep connections formed: "It allows each of us to escape into the world of books and feel connected by similar reactions to character scenarios."

Elizabeth, who has watched her children grow from elementary schoolers to college-bound young adults during her eight years with the club, treasures the opportunity to "catch up with ladies from the area that I have gotten to know. Some stay, some go. Some get jobs and can't attend, or life just gets busy."

For anyone considering starting a similar club, the Bridlewood Book Club members offer enthusiastic encouragement. "Have a diverse group of people with differing viewpoints to have a more engaging opportunity with your neighbors. Don't be afraid to try different genres," advises Tammy.

Elizabeth adds with determination, "Do it! And even if you only have two show up, keep at it. More will come."

As the Bridlewood Book Club enters its next chapter, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature to bring people together, creating connections that span generations, life stages, and perspectives—all within the welcoming embrace of a neighborhood that values the simple joy of sharing a good book.