When and Where: The first meeting of the Graduates Book Discussion Group was held Thursday evening, Sept. 26, 7:00 p.m., at the home of Bob and Pat Fulmer. Bob Fulmer and Berkeley Meigs co-directed this group. Coffee and dessert will be served.

The first book was The Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight by Thom Hartmann. This is non-fiction. Please read the following for some descriptions/reviews of this stimulating, highly readable book.

Reservations: As we take turns providing homes and refreshments, there is no cost for this event.

Description: Sunlight warms the Earth with life. As our culture moved from ancient hunting/gathering times to the technological era, we discovered ancient sunlight - captured millions of years ago by plants and compressed into oil deep under our soil and oceans. Now, as our planet's oil supplies are projected to last no more than 30 to 50 years, and species and cultures are dying off at an unprecedented rate, we confront difficult choices.

In this passionate yet thoroughly researched work, author Thom Hartmann proposes that the only lasting solution to the crises we face is to relearn the lessons of our ancient ancestors -- who lived sustainably for thousands of generations. When you touch this new yet ancient way of seeing the world and hearing the voice of all life, you discover that you, personally, hold the power of personal and planetary transformation. In that breathtaking moment, we see both a possible future for the survival of humanity, and the fulfillment of our highest dreams and aspirations.

Review: This is a book I probably would never have selected on my own, but I read for another discussion group, and was absolutely mesmerized by it. It is impeccably researched, entertaining, attention -grabbing, and highly provocative. It should inspire some very lively discussion! We learn about ancient civilizations, &  fascinating facts (such as the truth about the real Christopher Columbus, supported by his letters to the Queen & friends in Europe. You may be surprised at the truth concerning this American hero.) We learn how a population growth from an ideal of about one billion to the current six billion has impacted the planet and the prospects for the future, and we read some interesting options to remedy or halt the progresssion to self destruction.  This is not a morbid doomsday book, but an entertaining and convincing presentation, containing history, science, hope & humor. I wish everyone on the planet could read it! 
                                                                                                    -- Berkeley