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Odd Man Inn Bite-Size Book Club

Odd Man Inn Bite-Size Book Club

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Upcoming Dates

Upcoming Events in 2025

March:  The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating (Book)

Join us as we explore Elisabeth Tova Bailey's intimate meditation on nature, resilience, and the healing power of unexpected connections. While an illness keeps her bedridden, Bailey watches as the snail takes up residence on her nightstand. Intrigued by its molluscan anatomy, cryptic defenses, clear decision making ability, hydraulic locomotion, and mysterious courtship activities, Bailey becomes an astute and amused observer. The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating is a remarkable journey of survival and resilience, showing us how a small part of the natural world illuminates our own human existence.

  • Dates: (two separate sessions)
    • Tuesday, March 4 (6:00 PM CT)
    • Tuesday, March 11 (7:00 PM CT)
  • Location: Virtual meeting (link will be sent upon registration)
  • Price: Free (registration required)

Some Possible Discussion Questions:

  • Bailey's intimate observations of the snail reveal a complex being with unique preferences, behaviors, and needs. How does this parallel the individual care approach needed in sanctuary settings?
  • The author describes discovering an entire "world" in what others might overlook. How can this perspective help us advocate for often-dismissed or "pest" species in our communities?
  • Throughout the book, Bailey challenges the human-centric view of time and productivity. How might this shift in perspective influence our approach to sanctuary care and animal rehabilitation?

April:  Nature's Best Hope (Book)

In honor of Earth Day, we'll discuss Douglas Tallamy's revolutionary call to action for environmental stewardship. Tallamy presents a grassroots approach to conservation that empowers individual homeowners to become custodians of nature. Learn how small changes in our yards and communities can create vital corridors for wildlife and support biodiversity.

  • Dates: (two separate sessions)
    • Tuesday, April 22 - Earth Day (7:00 PM CT)
    • Tuesday, April 29 (6:00 PM CT)
  • Location: Virtual meeting (link will be sent upon registration)
  • Price: Free (registration required)

Some Possible Discussion Questions:

  • Tallamy introduces the concept of "Homegrown National Park." How might this vision reshape our relationship with private land and environmental responsibility?
  • The book challenges traditional notions of the "perfect" lawn. What cultural shifts would be needed to embrace more biodiverse landscaping practices?
  • Sanctuaries often balance the needs of resident animals with wider ecosystem health. How can Tallamy's approach to habitat restoration be integrated into sanctuary spaces?

May: Okja (Movie; PG-13)

Experience director Bong Joon-ho's powerful exploration of the complex relationships between humans and animals through this visually stunning film. Following the story of a young girl and her beloved super-pig, Okja weaves together themes of friendship, corporate greed, and animal rights in a narrative that challenges our understanding of companionship and consumption.

  • Dates: (two separate sessions)
    • Tuesday, May 13 (6:00 PM CT)
    • Tuesday, May 20 (7:00 PM CT) 
  • Location: Virtual meeting (link will be sent upon registration)
  • Price: Free (registration required)

Some Possible Discussion Questions:

  • What role does scale play in the film - both in terms of Okja's physical size and the industrial scale of modern animal agriculture? How does this affect our emotional response to the story?
  • Bong Joon-Ho, the film’s director, notes in an interview with The Guardian, “Okja’s dog-like playfulness and pig-like fate are meant to shine a light on our differential treatment of domestic and food animals, a societal inconsistency as arbitrary and unjust as human supremacy.” Respond to this quote.
  • The film contrasts Okja's life with Mija versus her treatment by the corporation. How can we use stories like this to help people understand the difference between sanctuary care and animal farming?
  • The relationship between Mija and Okja demonstrates the depth of cross-species bonds. How can we use these emotional connections to inspire people toward more compassionate food choices and support for sanctuary work?

How to Prepare

For each session, we'll provide a welcoming space for thoughtful discussion and reflection. Remember, spots are limited to 10 participants per session to ensure quality conversation. Register early to secure your place!

For all sessions, we'll explore how these works can inform our mission of creating a more compassionate world for all animals - from the snails in our gardens to the pigs in sanctuaries. Our discussions will focus on practical ways to translate insights into action, whether through personal choices, community education, or broader advocacy efforts.

Each session provides a supportive environment to discuss challenging topics and explore solutions together. We welcome all levels of experience in animal advocacy, and appreciate diverse perspectives on building a more compassionate future.

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About Our Facilitator

Sharon Carson, Ph.D., is a Chester Fritz Distinguished Professor in the Departments of English, as well as Philosophy and Ethics at the University of North Dakota. As an OMI volunteer helping with education projects, she is delighted to help launch the Bite-Size Book Club (our own BBC!)  to support OMI’s commitments to open discussion of complex topics, community building, and the collaborative creation of better knowledge.