Dear Great Book Guru, The Sea Cliff Civic Association’s Cider Social last week was such a great introduction to all the fun Sea Cliff has to offer in the Fall! While enjoying the many young witches and goblins frolic, I overheard people talking about a new book by a favorite author mine…Barbara Kingsolver. Have you read it? Cider Socialite............................................... Dear Cider Socialite, Barbara Kingsolver is a huge favorite of mine too and her latest novel PARTITA does not disappoint. The title comes from the musical term meaning a composition of dance-inspired movements, and music infuses this book in a myriad of ways. The story is told in the first person by Livia Cable, an extraordinarily talented pianist who has led a tragedy-filled life. We first meet Livia as a middle-aged woman living on a dairy farm with her devoted husband, Charlie, and giving piano lessons to her Tennessee neighbors’ children. We quickly go back in time to her childhood where the first of many tragedies occurs - her beloved older brother commits suicide and Livia - as children will - blames herself. Her parents refuse to recognize her grief and become enraged when she shows signs of musical genius. Winning a scholarship to a prestigious Indiana university, she cuts ties with her past and embarks on a magical musical career…until tragedy strikes again and her life as a pianist comes to an end. Throughout the years, she wonders what secrets surround her ill-fated family, so when a lover from years ago calls, she seizes on the opportunity to revisit the past and make things right. We watch with interest and fear as Olivia “dances” her way through this journey. Recommended!