Mechanics' Hall Book Discussion Group (December)

The Mechanics’ Hall Book Discussion group meets to chat about books by exceptional thinkers and artists.

Everyone is welcome, and ongoing attendance is not required. The group is free for Mechanics' Hall Members.

Curious about the group but not a Mechanics' Hall member? You're invited to stop by! If you like what you hear, consider becoming a member.

DECEMBER BOOK SELECTION

Reeves, Cynthia, The Last Whaler, (2024)

A whale hunter and his wife are stranded in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, in the Norwegian Sea, in the winter of 1937-38, which is the dark season, with little daylight. Reviewed on Goodreads, it is a historical novel that explores themes of grief, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit set against the harsh Arctic wilderness. The book follows Tor and Astrid, a couple stranded during the dark season, and their struggles with isolation, loss, and the challenges of an unexpected pregnancy. Reviews highlight the novel's powerful portrayal of human emotions, the vivid descriptions of the Arctic landscape, and the themes of environmental impact and the human relationship with nature. Feeney is a Maine writer who lives in Camden.

[Goodreads]

FULL LIST OF SELECTIONS

October 9: by Deborah Archer (2025)

November 4: by Elaine Feeney(2023)

December 2: by Cynthia Reeves (2024)

January 6: by Amy Bass (2018)

February 3: by Percival Everett(2024)

March 3: by Charlie English (2025)

May 5: by Brit Bennett (2022)

PARKING & TRANSPORTATION

Mechanics’ Hall is located at 519 Congress Street. Our main entrance is between Loquat Shop and the Art Mart. The Greater Portland Metro’s Congress & Casco Street Stop is directly in front of our building, served by routes 1, 7, 8, and 9B.

Parking is available at the Arts District Garage, which has entrances on Casco and Brown Street, with a rate of $5 per hour. Metered street parking is available on Congress, Casco, Cumberland, Free Street, and other nearby streets. Free hourly street parking is available between Parris and Alder Street.

ACCESSIBILITY

To enter our building, patrons will need to navigate a single step. There is a wheelchair-accessible elevator and a ramp available upon request.

If you have a wheelchair or need accessibility accommodations/questions please contact us at cHJvZ3JhbW1pbmcgfCBtYWluZW1lY2hhbmljcyAhIG9yZw== or 207-773-8396.

Also check out other Arts events in Portland, Literary Art events in Portland.