Agawam Pageturners' Book Club Discussion of The Faith Club by Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver, and Priscilla Warner

This book was about three women, one Muslim, one Christian, and one Jewish who got together on a regular basis to talk about her religion with the other women. They were trying to find some commonalities in their religions to share with their children. Some people in the group thought the women were soul searching, searching for themselves, and trying to find their centers, and reachinf for their own epiphanies. Others criticized the women as being egomaniacs, self-absorbed, and too aware that they were "enlightened" as opposed to others. Others questioned how different the book would have been if the women were not so wealthy, or did not have supportive husbands. Some thought this was too harsh, and thought these women were trying to exchange ideas and communicate like we do in the book club, but which seldom happens anymore. Also, others argued the women should be commended by trying to bring children up in a religion and sharing the commonalities of their religions with their children. Many do not even bring up children in any religion anymore. One issue that it was agreed that the women had in the forefront of their minds was death. The reason was the women were from New York City and had dealt with 9/11. They had to address the issue of death for themselves and for their children. Certain specific aspects of the book were criticized. Most felt the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was not portrayed accurately; it was biased towards the Palestinians. Some criticized Priscilla for leaving her father when he was dying. She was also criticized for not understanding Judaism. Someone defended her, saying Priscilla was not well because she had panic attacks. Others criticized Suzanne for her being judgmental of Catholics and Evangelicals. One woman said Ranya protests too much. The book certainly created very strong opinions, and a very interesting discussion.