Alliance Francaise of NW CT

Groupe de Lecture - 6:30pm
2017-01-05 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
Meeting on the first Thursday of each month, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, this group has a lot of fun sipping wine, tasting cheese and crackers and taking turns reading out loud in French. Enjoy hearing and sharing the richness of the French language.
January’s meeting is at the winter location : our AF Center in Southbury. So far, the weather forecast is good, with no precipitation anticipated 🙂
The title of the current selection is “Lutetia” by Pierre Assouline and the group will continue their reading starting on page 74 at the paragraph that begins: “Cet homme là-bas, par example.”
Lutetia (2005) raconte une histoire d’amour entre le détective du Lutetia et une amie d’enfance, mais surtout une histoire de la France de 1938 à 1945 à travers l’histoire de l’Hôtel Lutetia qui a, durant toute l’Occupation, servi de siège à l’Abwehr (les services secrets de l’état-major allemand) puis, à la Libération, de lieu d’accueil des déportés et rapatriés.
Description
Tapi dans les recoins les plus secrets du Lutetia, un homme voit l’Europe s’enfoncer dans la guerre mondiale. Édouard Kiefer, Alsacien, ancien flic des RG. Détective chargé de la sécurité de l’hôtel et de ses clients. Discret et intouchable, nul ne sait ce qu’il pense. Dans un Paris vaincu, occupé, humilié, aux heures les plus sombres de la collaboration, cet homme, pourtant, est hanté par une question : jusqu’où peut-on aller sans trahir sa conscience ? De 1938 à 1945, l’hôtel Lutetia – l’unique palace de la rive gauche – partage le destin de la France. Entre ses murs se succèdent, en effet, exilés, écrivains et artistes, puis officiers nazis et trafiquants du marché noir, pour laisser place enfin à la cohorte des déportés de retour des camps. En accordant précision biographique et souffle romanesque, Pierre Assouline redonne vie à la légende perdue du grand hôtel, avec un art du clair-obscur qui convient mieux que tout autre au mythique Lutetia…

Une revue du livre:
“I loved this book; it is long; but every page contains a drop of history which we can view through the prism of the Hotel Lutetia. While not exactly a history book, I suppose one could call it a “roman cle” since most of the characters and certainly the principal events described are non-fictional. A beautifully written account of the intrigues (and tragedies) of the German occupation. Think of “Remains of the Day” only this is far more poignant and powerful since the Hotel was the headquarters for the Nationalist Socialist Intelligence Agency and the action unfolds in the heart of Nazi-occupied Paris. Very powerful narrative and an unexpected climax approaching the end of the novel. Please read it. It won’t disappoint.”

If you have any questions, please let Amanda know at lecture@afnwct.org.

AFNWCT Members attend for free; A suggested donation of $5 is requested from others.
Questions or comments? Contact Amanda: lecture@afnwct.org

Parlons Français class - Brookfield 6:30pm
2017-01-05 18:30 - 20:00
Parlons Français: Back To Basics
The Brookfield Library is once again hosting Parlons Français, a series of “classes” for those of you who have studied French in the past, and just want a refresher.
Led by Colin Harrison, students will go ‘back to basics’ with the textbook “Ultimate French – Beginner-Intermediate” down in the Community Room. Having already met for 7 sessions, the final class in this series will be Thursday, January 19 2017.
Please register for these free events through the Brookfield Library website.

Southbury French Discussion @ 12noon
2017-01-04 12:00 - 13:30
Our Southbury French Discussion Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday* of each month from noon to 1:30 pm.
Today’s discussion is Holiday Traditions. Share your ideas, thoughts and “souvenirs” en français…
Our Discussion Group welcomes French speakers at all levels, whether you are a French native, fluent, just starting out or haven’t used your French in +20 years – bring your lunch and join us. We promise to be friendly and kind and look forward to meeting you.
AFNWCT members participate at no charge. A $5 suggested donation is kindly requested from all others.
If you have questions, please call 203-707-0710

Parlons Français class - Brookfield Library 2pm
2016-12-28 14:00 - 15:30
Parlons Français: Back To Basics
The Brookfield Library is hosting our Parlons Français group for those who have studied French in the past, and just wanted a refresher.
Led by Colin Harrison, students will go ‘back to basics’ with the textbook “Ultimate French – Beginner-Intermediate”. The class has already met 5 times, meeting generally on Wednesday from 2:00 – 3:30 pm (or Thursday evenings) down in the Community Room following the schedule listed below. Homework is expected!
Please register for these free events through the Brookfield Library website.
The final meeting dates are:
Wednesday, 11 January 2017, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 25 January 2017, 2:00-3:30 pm

BONNES FÊTES DE FIN D’ANNÉE!
2016-12-25 08:00 - 2016-12-31 17:00
Wishing you and yours Season’s Greetings and a joyous end of the year!

Southbury French Discussion Group @ 12pm
2016-12-21 12:00 - 13:30
Our Southbury French Discussion Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday* of each month from noon to 1:30 pm.
Today’s discussion is “Quels Vins Accompagnent Quels Plats?” Share your ideas, thoughts and “souvenirs” en français…
Our Discussion Group welcomes French speakers at all levels, whether you are a French native, fluent, just starting out or haven’t used your French in +20 years – bring your lunch and join us. We promise to be friendly and kind and look forward to meeting you.
AFNWCT members participate at no charge. A $5 suggested donation is kindly requested from all others.
If you have questions, please call 203-707-0710
*There will be no meeting on the 2nd Wednesday of the month as our French Movie (Southbury Cine-Club) takes place on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 1-3pm.

Café Conv.-Canceled Due to Weather
2016-12-17 10:30 - 12:30
Due to the expected snow storm, Café Conversation is cancelled today. Our next meeting will be on Saturday, January 14.
Wishing you and yours happy end of the year holidays! See you in the new year!
Those with a question, or if you wish to propose a certain topic or lead one of the discussions should contact Brigitte: cafe@afnwct.org

Short Films Festival 7pm
2016-12-16 19:00 - 21:00
The AFNWCT and Southbury Film Commission co-sponsored Short Film Festival continues featuring Eurochannel’s 7th Annual Short Films Tour titled “My Dear Family.”
Program 2, titled “Funny Games” will be shown on Tuesday, December 13 at 1:00 pm at the AF Center in Southbury and also on Friday December 16 at 7:00 pm for those who prefer an evening time – also at the AF Center.
Two films from France titled “Homer’s Disease,” a comedy and “Life Game”, a drama will be shown in addition to movies from the United Kingdowm, Spain, Cyprus, Italy and Finland.

PROGRAM 2
FUNNY GAMES
Min.
Type

UNITED KINGDOM
Believe You
8
Comedy

FRANCE
Homer’s Disease
12
Comedy

FRANCE
Life Game
11
Drama

ITALY
Berenice’s Idea
14
Drama

SPAIN
Chicas Day
10
Drama

FINLAND
Mother
11
Drama

CYPRUS
Afterthoughts
8
Comedy

Each film is shown in its original language with English subtitiles. Brief discussions will be held between films to give time to the audience to give their reaction and ask questions.
The family has been the core of European society and the vital energy that moves countries and changes almost every aspect of life, from economics, to politics, to arts. The Seventh Eurochannel Short Films Tour will capture this familiar spirit and treat the viewers and cinema lovers with stories about families, their challenges and greatest accomplishments. The nuclear European family traditionally consisted of a married father and mother with several children, but today this is only one option among many. Despite the modern day variances, Europeans continue to value family ahead of friends, work, leisure time, politics and religion as the most important element in their lives. That is why, this edition of the Eurochannel Short Films Tour will pay homage to its crucial importance.
ALL PROGRAMS ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC WITH A SUGGESTED DONATION OF $5. Please RSVP by calling 203-707-0710 with your name and the number of people attending as seating is limited.

The Southbury Film Commission is a sub-commission of the Southbury Economic Development Commission and has as its mission to market the town of Southbury as a filming destination by promoting local professionals and support. The Southbury Film Commission welcomes volunteers, either as members or just helping with particular tasks. For more information visit their website at www.southburyfilm.org or contact the SFC Chair at southburyfilm@southbury-ct.gov. All the Europe you love is on Eurochannel! Eurochannel is the award winning television channel featuring premium European entertainment with the biggest stars in cinema, TV and music. Eurochannel is available on Sling in the US. Visit Eurochannel on www.eurochannel.com, become a fan on Facebook on www.facebook.com/eurochannel and follow them on Twitter on www.twitter.com/eurochannel.

Morris French Discussion Group - 6pm
2016-12-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Harvest Moon Timber Frame – Morris, CT, 198 East St, Morris, CT, 06763, United States
The Morris French Discussion group will meet on Thursday, December 15 starting at 6:00 pm at the offices of Harvest Moon Timber Frame, LLC located at 198 East Street* in Morris (see Google Map below.) Led by a French native, previous discussion subjects have featured le Ricard, l’attentat à Nice, Truffaut interviews of Alfred Hitchcock, les parapluies de Cherbourg, the origin of Le Père Noël, Bic pens, Roquefort cheese, Le Beaujolais Nouveau….
Whether you are just learning French or are an advanced speaker, you are welcome to join. You will have an opportunity to learn, practice, and improve your French language skills at these informal meetings. This month’s discussion focus is “Bulles Americaines”, Camus and Gad Elmaleh… .
AFNWCT Members attend for free; A suggested donation of $5 is requested from others.
*East Street is in fact route 109. There’s a big sign out front. There’s both a red barn and a house – the group will be meeting in the house.

Parlons Français class - Brookfield Library 2pm
2016-12-14 14:00 - 15:30
Parlons Français: Back To Basics
The Brookfield Library is once again hosting Parlons Français, a series of “classes” for those of you who have studied French in the past, and just want a refresher.
Led by Colin Harrison, students will go ‘back to basics’ with the textbook “Ultimate French – Beginner-Intermediate”. The class has already met 4 times, meeting generally on Wednesday from 2:00 – 3:30 pm (or Thursday evenings) down in the Community Room following the schedule listed below.
The class size is limited to six participants for each series. Copies of the textbook will be available at cost ($12) in the first sessions. Homework will be required!
Please register for these free events through the Brookfield Library website.
The final meeting dates are:
Wednesday, 28 December 2016, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 11 January 2017, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 25 January 2017, 2:00-3:30 pm

Short Films Festival 1pm
2016-12-13 13:00 - 15:00

Holiday Cocktail Party - 7pm
2016-12-10 19:00 - 22:00 | Middlebury Residence, 36 Chesham Drive, Middlebury, CT, 06762, United States
OUR HOLIDAY COCKTAIL PARTY will be held at our members’ beautiful Middlebury home.
We’ll eat (delicious hors d’oeuvres, festive Reveillon-style desserts and chocolates), drink (everyone loves John’s special cocktails) and we’ll all be merry!
Dress to impress and come celebrate in style!
AFNWCT Member price is $25 when paid for by December 3. Non-members* and At-Door price is $35 (please call 203-7070710 to RSVP).
Send your checks by December 3 made payable to AFNWCT to 1 Pomperaug Office Park, Suite 301, Southbury, CT 06488 or you may pay by credit card below.

Not a member? Click HERE to go to our Membership Page

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Parlons Français - Brookfield 6:30pm
2016-12-08 18:30 - 20:00
Parlons Français: Back To Basics
You studied French in high school, but your memory could use some refreshing. The Brookfield Library will once again be our host for a series of meetings – this year more like a class – for our Parlons Français group, led by Colin Harrison.
Students go ‘back to basics’ with the textbook “Ultimate French – Beginner-Intermediate”. The fourth class in this series will meet on Thursday evening, December 8 from 6:30-8:00 pm (or Wednesday afternoons) upstairs in the main library section and contine to meet as per the schedule listed below.
The class size is limited to six participants for each series. Copies of the textbook will be available at cost ($12) in the first sessions. Homework will be required!
Please register for this event through the Brookfield Library website.
Next Meeting Dates are:
Thursday, 22 December 2016, 6:30-8:00 pm
Thursday, 5 January 2017, 6:30-8:00 pm
Thursday, 19 January 2017, 6:30-8:00 pm

Southbury Ciné-Club - 1 pm
2016-12-08 13:00 - 15:00
Our Cine-Club meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 1:00 – 3:00 pm to watch French movies (subtitled in English). All levels of French speakers are welcome to attend.
December’s movie is SAGAN, the 2008 French biographical film, directed by Diane Kurys, starring Sylvie Testud as French author Françoise Sagan and Pierre Palmade as a dancer and a society man, Jacques Chazot, who was very well known in France.
While her writing made her famous, it was her prominent affairs with famous men and women alike, as well as her flamboyant habits, addictions and revolutionary shared living arrangements that largely sparked the public’ interest.
AFNWCT members attend free of charge. A $5 suggested donation is kindly requested from others. New attendees are kindly requested to call (203) 707-0710 to RSVP.

Southbury French Discussion Group @ 12pm
2016-12-07 12:00 - 13:30
Our Southbury French Discussion Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday* of each month from noon to 1:30 pm.
Today’s discussion is TBD. Share your ideas, thoughts and “souvenirs” en français…
Our Discussion Group welcomes French speakers at all levels, whether you are a French native, fluent, just starting out or haven’t used your French in +20 years – bring your lunch and join us. We promise to be friendly and kind and look forward to meeting you.
AFNWCT members participat at no charge. A $5 suggested donation is kindly requested from all others.
If you have questions, please call 203-707-0710
*There will be no meeting on the 2nd Wednesday of the month however, there will be a French Movie (Southbury Cine-Club) on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 1-3pm.

Café Conversation @ 10h30
2016-12-03 10:30 - 12:30, 2016-11-19 10:30 - 12:30, 2016-11-05 10:30 - 12:30
Café Conversation is a great way to practice, improve and/or help you feel more comfortable speaking French with friendly francophones and francophiles who enjoy speaking French in an informal setting. The group meets every other Saturday from 10:30 to 12:30 (be sure to check this calendar often). Have a cup of coffee and meet/greet fellow members for the first half hour or so with some small talk – en français (it’s all about practicing!) and then prepare to tackle the subject of the day.
An article in French (often with a side-by-side English translation) will be read out loud en français by the participants to practice proper pronounciation and to check understanding of the French vocabulary and grammar. The article will then be used to spark the conversation.
All levels of French are welcome. AFNWCT members attend free and a $5 suggested donation is kindly requested from all others.
Those with a question, or if you wish to propose a certain topic or lead one of the discussions should contact Brigitte: cafe@afnwct.org
This group meets at the AF Center located at 1 Pomperaug Office Park, Suite 301 in Southbury. See map below.

Groupe de Lecture - 6:30pm
2016-12-01 18:30 - 20:30
Meeting on the first Thursday of each month, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, this group has a lot of fun sipping wine, tasting cheese and crackers and taking turns reading out loud in French. Enjoy hearing and sharing the richness of the French language.
December’s meeting is on the 1st meeting at the winter location at our AF Center in Southbury.
The title of our selection is “Lutetia” by Pierre Assouline.
Lutetia (2005) raconte une histoire d’amour entre le détective du Lutetia et une amie d’enfance, mais surtout une histoire de la France de 1938 à 1945 à travers l’histoire de l’Hôtel Lutetia qui a, durant toute l’Occupation, servi de siège à l’Abwehr (les services secrets de l’état-major allemand) puis, à la Libération, de lieu d’accueil des déportés et rapatriés.
Description
Tapi dans les recoins les plus secrets du Lutetia, un homme voit l’Europe s’enfoncer dans la guerre mondiale. Édouard Kiefer, Alsacien, ancien flic des RG. Détective chargé de la sécurité de l’hôtel et de ses clients. Discret et intouchable, nul ne sait ce qu’il pense. Dans un Paris vaincu, occupé, humilié, aux heures les plus sombres de la collaboration, cet homme, pourtant, est hanté par une question : jusqu’où peut-on aller sans trahir sa conscience ? De 1938 à 1945, l’hôtel Lutetia – l’unique palace de la rive gauche – partage le destin de la France. Entre ses murs se succèdent, en effet, exilés, écrivains et artistes, puis officiers nazis et trafiquants du marché noir, pour laisser place enfin à la cohorte des déportés de retour des camps. En accordant précision biographique et souffle romanesque, Pierre Assouline redonne vie à la légende perdue du grand hôtel, avec un art du clair-obscur qui convient mieux que tout autre au mythique Lutetia…

Une revue du livre:
“I loved this book; it is long; but every page contains a drop of history which we can view through the prism of the Hotel Lutetia. While not exactly a history book, I suppose one could call it a “roman cle” since most of the characters and certainly the principal events described are non-fictional. A beautifully written account of the intrigues (and tragedies) of the German occupation. Think of “Remains of the Day” only this is far more poignant and powerful since the Hotel was the headquarters for the Nationalist Socialist Intelligence Agency and the action unfolds in the heart of Nazi-occupied Paris. Very powerful narrative and an unexpected climax approaching the end of the novel. Please read it. It won’t disappoint.”

If you have any questions, please let Amanda know at lecture@afnwct.org.

AFNWCT Members attend for free; A suggested donation of $5 is requested from others.
Questions or comments? Contact Amanda: lecture@afnwct.org

Parlons Français - Brookfield Library 2pm
2016-11-30 14:00 - 15:30
Parlons Français: Back To Basics
You studied French in high school, but your memory could use some refreshing. The Brookfield Library will once again be our host for a series of meetings – this year more like a class – for our Parlons Français group, led by Colin Harrison.
Students go ‘back to basics’ with the textbook “Ultimate French – Beginner-Intermediate”. The fourth class of this series will meet on Wednesday November 30 from 2:00 – 3:30 pm (or Thursday evenings) down in the Community Room and contine to meet as per the schedule listed below.
The class size is limited to six participants for each series. Copies of the textbook will be available at cost ($12) in the first sessions. Homework will be required!
Please register for these free events through the Brookfield Library website.
Next Meeting Dates are:
Wednesday, 14 December 2016, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 28 December 2016, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 11 January 2017, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 25 January 2017, 2:00-3:30 pm

Pas de Scrabble: Nous sommes "en vacances"
2016-11-30 12:00 - 13:30
There will be no Wednesday Scrabble group meeting today. Our next Scrabble day will be on December 28. We look forward to seeing you thenl

Bonne Fête du Jour de Grâce!
2016-11-24 - 2016-11-27
Our AF Center is Closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday!
Nous vous souhaitons Bonne Fête!

Southbury Discussion Group est "en vacances"
2016-11-23 12:00 - 13:30
There will be no Wednesday French Discussion group meeting today and no classes this weekend – We wish you a happy Thanksgiving Holiday and look forward to seeing youl when we come back together on Wednesday, December 7 at noon.

Morris French Discussion Group - 6pm
2016-11-17 18:00 - 19:30 | Harvest Moon Timber Frame – Morris, CT, 198 East St, Morris, CT, 06763, United States
The Morris French Discussion group will meet on Thursday, November 17 starting at 6:00 pm at the offices of Harvest Moon Timber Frame, LLC located at 198 East Street* in Morris (see Google Map below.) Led by a French native, previous discussion subjects have featured le Ricard, l’attentat à Nice, Truffaut interviews of Alfred Hitchcock, les parapluies de Cherbourg, the origin of Le Père Noël, Bic pens, Roquefort cheese, Le Beaujolais Nouveau….
Whether you are just learning French or are an advanced speaker, you are welcome to join. You will have an opportunity to learn, practice, and improve your French language skills at these informal meetings. This month’s discussion focus is “Les Différences entre les Elections Présidentielles americaines et francaises.” Here are the articles: au-congres-une-prime-aux-etats-peu-peuples and election-presidentielle-en-france Please RSVP to afnwct@afnwct.org.
AFNWCT Members attend for free; A suggested donation of $5 is requested from others.
*East Street is in fact route 109. There’s a big sign out front. There’s both a red barn and a house – the group will be meeting in the house.

Southbury French Discussion Group @ 12pm
2016-11-16 12:00 - 13:30
Our Southbury French Discussion Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday* of each month from noon to 1:30 pm. Bring your lunch and chat en français then we begin often with an article to help discuss “le Sujet du Jour”…
Today’s discussion “LE FROMAGE” (Cheese). Share your ideas, thoughts and favorite cheese …

Our Discussion Group welcomes French speakers at all levels, whether you are a French native, fluent, just starting out or haven’t used your French in +20 years – bring your lunch and join us. We promise to be friendly and kind and look forward to meeting you.
AFNWCT members participate at no charge. A $5 suggested donation is kindly requested from all others.
If you have questions, please call 203-707-0710
*There will be no meeting on the 2nd Wednesday of the month however, there will be a French Movie (Southbury Cine-Club) on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 1-3pm.

Parlons Français - Brookfield Library 2pm
2016-11-14 14:00 - 15:30
Parlons Français: Back To Basics
You studied French in high school, but your memory could use some refreshing. The Brookfield Library will once again be our host for a series of meetings – this year more like a class – for our Parlons Français group, led by Colin Harrison.
Students go ‘back to basics’ with the textbook “Ultimate French – Beginner-Intermediate”. The third class will meet exceptionally on a MONDAY this time from 2:00 – 3:30 pm (or Thursday evenings) down in the Community Room and contine to meet as per the schedule listed below.
The class size is limited to six participants for each series. Copies of the textbook will be available at cost ($12) in the first sessions. Homework will be required!
Please register for these free events through the Brookfield Library website.
Next Meeting Dates are:
Wednesday, 30 November 2016, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 14 December 2016, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 28 December 2016, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 11 January 2017, 2:00-3:30 pm
Wednesday, 25 January 2017, 2:00-3:30 pm

Comprendre et Comparer des Vins 6:30pm
2016-11-11 18:30 - 20:30
This is a new group that will meet monthly to learn to better understand and appreciate wines by comparisons: e.g. two vintages, two different years, two different regions…. Each facilitator will decide which wines will be compared.
Our second program will be led by James Donahue. Cost will be $7.50 per person for AFNWCT members and $10.00 for non-members.There will be a limit of 20 people so be sure to RSVP sooner than later.
In order to purchase the wines, participants should send checks by November 8. Call 203-707-0710 to RSVP and send your checks made payable AFNWCT to 1 Pomperaug Office Park, Suite 301, Southbury, CT 06488.

Parlons Français - Brookfield 6:30pm
2016-11-10 18:30 - 20:00
Parlons Français: Back To Basics
You studied French in high school, but your memory could use some refreshing. The Brookfield Library will once again be our host for a series of meetings – this year more like a class – for our Parlons Français group, led by Colin Harrison.
Students go ‘back to basics’ with the textbook “Ultimate French – Beginner-Intermediate”. The third class in this series will meet on Thursday evening, November 10 from 6:30-8:00 pm (or Wednesday afternoons) upstairs in the main library section and contine to meet as per the schedule listed below.
The class size is limited to six participants for each series. Copies of the textbook will be available at cost ($12) in the first sessions. Homework will be required!
Please register for this event through the Brookfield Library website.
Next Meeting Dates are:
Thursday, 8 December 2016, 6:30-8:00 pm
Thursday, 22 December 2016, 6:30-8:00 pm
Thursday, 5 January 2017, 6:30-8:00 pm
Thursday, 19 January 2017, 6:30-8:00 pm

Southbury Ciné-Club - 1 pm
2016-11-10 13:00 - 15:00
Our Cine-Club will meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm to watch French movies (subtitled in English). All levels of French speakers are welcome to attend.
November’s movie will be the 2013 comedy “Quai d’Orsay or “The French Minister” directed by Bernard Tavernier starring Thierry Lhermitte, Julie Gayet and Rafael Personnaz. A new speechwriter must navigate the rough waters of internal politics while trying to compose an important address for his boss, the minister of foreign affairs.
AFNWCT members attend free of charge. A $5 suggested donation is kindly requested from others. New attendees are kindly requested to call (203) 707-0710 to RSVP.

Groupe de Lecture - 6:30pm
2016-11-03 18:30 - 20:30
Meeting on the first Thursday of each month, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, this group has a lot of fun sipping wine, tasting cheese and crackers and taking turns reading out loud in French. Enjoy hearing and sharing the richness of the French language.
November’s meeting is on the 3rd and will probably meet at its winter location at our AF Center in Southbury.
SPECIAL NOTE TO NEW PARTICIPANTS: We will probably be starting a new book in November and will need to order it immediately because the copies will be coming from Europe and will take several weeks to arrive. Unlike most of the books we read, this particular one isn’t so easy to obtain from Amazon (the prices vary a lot) however we have found a dealer who is willing to order new copies that cost a little under $12 each, including shipping. The title of our next selection is “Lutetia” by Pierre Assouline.
Lutetia (2005) raconte une histoire d’amour entre le détective du Lutetia et une amie d’enfance, mais surtout une histoire de la France de 1938 à 1945 à travers l’histoire de l’Hôtel Lutetia qui a, durant toute l’Occupation, servi de siège à l’Abwehr (les services secrets de l’état-major allemand) puis, à la Libération, de lieu d’accueil des déportés et rapatriés.
Description
Tapi dans les recoins les plus secrets du Lutetia, un homme voit l’Europe s’enfoncer dans la guerre mondiale. Édouard Kiefer, Alsacien, ancien flic des RG. Détective chargé de la sécurité de l’hôtel et de ses clients. Discret et intouchable, nul ne sait ce qu’il pense. Dans un Paris vaincu, occupé, humilié, aux heures les plus sombres de la collaboration, cet homme, pourtant, est hanté par une question : jusqu’où peut-on aller sans trahir sa conscience ? De 1938 à 1945, l’hôtel Lutetia – l’unique palace de la rive gauche – partage le destin de la France. Entre ses murs se succèdent, en effet, exilés, écrivains et artistes, puis officiers nazis et trafiquants du marché noir, pour laisser place enfin à la cohorte des déportés de retour des camps. En accordant précision biographique et souffle romanesque, Pierre Assouline redonne vie à la légende perdue du grand hôtel, avec un art du clair-obscur qui convient mieux que tout autre au mythique Lutetia…

Une revue du livre:
“I loved this book; it is long; but every page contains a drop of history which we can view through the prism of the Hotel Lutetia. While not exactly a history book, I suppose one could call it a “roman cle” since most of the characters and certainly the principal events described are non-fictional. A beautifully written account of the intrigues (and tragedies) of the German occupation. Think of “Remains of the Day” only this is far more poignant and powerful since the Hotel was the headquarters for the Nationalist Socialist Intelligence Agency and the action unfolds in the heart of Nazi-occupied Paris. Very powerful narrative and an unexpected climax approaching the end of the novel. Please read it. It won’t disappoint.”

If you have any questions, please let Amanda know at lecture@afnwct.org.

AFNWCT Members attend for free; A suggested donation of $5 is requested from others.
Questions or comments? Contact Amanda: lecture@afnwct.org
