The Nix - February CC Book Club Selection

Parent Cafe
1

Our February selection is The Nix by Nathan Hill–Entertainment Weekly’s #1 Book of the Year (2016), and on the Notable List for both The New York Times and The Washington Post. Yes, it’s a fat one—close to 700 pages—but what else do you have to do in January? Just think of it as reading two shorter books.

The Nix is the story of Samuel Andresen-Anderson, whose mother re-enters his life after abandoning the family years earlier. She is charged with a crime that inflames a politically divided country, and Samuel embarks on a journey to save her, uncovering secrets along the way. It’s a tragicomic adventure that NPR calls “a sprawling satire with a very human heart.”

Discussion begins February 1st. Please join us!

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I have put my name on the list of folks trying to get a copy of this book from our library—I am next in the queue. It sounds intriguing. Thanks for choosing this book and giving me a reason to read it. :slight_smile:

3

A great selection - I read The Nix when it first came out, and loved the book’s big scope, pace, humor, humanity and prose style.

4

I read this book several months ago so I’m anxious to see what all of you think of it.

5

I am loving this book and only hope I remember enough in February to discuss. Can I say anything yet, specifically of which other writer’s style it reminds me?

6

Please don’t!

7

That’s why I am checking.

8

Usually we just stick to “it’s a fast read” don’t worry if you don’t have it yet.

9

Yay, I read this and would love to discuss. It’s not one I would have picked off the shelf but I really enjoyed it.

10

I’ve got the book and plan to start it today. I’m posting to pull this thread up as a reminder. (Joining the CC Book Club would be a good - fun - easy - New Year’s resolution. :wink: )

11

In our house we have diametrically opposed opinions about this book. :smiley:

12

I’m halfway thru for the second time. Giving myself permission to skim parts this time. Is is a spoiler to say that not every digression is key to advancing the plot?

13

Yes, it is. I’d like to discover that on my own or, perhaps, disagree with you later.

14

@mathmom - my opinion of the book changed as I read through it.

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@Marilyn, I will remain mum till February 1. :slight_smile:

16

I’ve been thinking about participating in this book club, and I was able to get the book this afternoon. I’m looking forward to the discussion.

17

I haven’t even opened The Nix yet, but plan to start tomorrow. Just finished Lincoln in the Bardo. Very strange book, never read anything like it.

18

@Mary13 , I agree that is a most unusual book. It mesmerized me. The audio version has, if I recall correctly, several hundred narrators! I have recommended it to several reader friends-- so far only one loves it like I do!

19

Finished it today as my library ebook runs out today. I should be able to pick up a hardcover copy to have on hand for the discussion as it is available at a couple of nearby libraries. I think there will be lots to discuss!

20

I will be here for this selection too.