Last Monday Book Club: “The Cider House Rules” by John Irving

This month’s book is by John Irving, who studied under Kurt Vonnegut at the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Homer is an orphan in remote St. Cloud, Maine. Never adopted, he becomes the favorite of orphanage Director Dr. Larch, who imparts his full medical knowledge on Homer, who becomes a skilled, albeit unlicensed, physician. But Homer yearns for a self-chosen life outside the orphanage. When Wally and pregnant Candy visit the orphanage, Dr. Larch provides a medically safe, albeit illegal, abortion, Homer leaves with them to work on Wally's family apple farm. Wally goes off to war, leaving Homer and Candy alone together. What will Homer learn about life and love in the cider house? What of the destiny that Dr. Larch has planned for him?

Regular print, large print, and audio books will be available. Ask for a copy at the circulation counter. New members are always welcome!