Frequently Asked Questions
What is the *Virtual Book Club* and what does it do?
Professor Luzzi's Virtual Book Club will bring you inside some of the world's greatest books, with fresh insights into the power of storytelling that can inspire your everyday lives.
What kinds of books will we be reading?
All kinds! A new book will be revealed each month. It could be a bestselling novel by a contemporary author like Jonathan Franzen, Margaret Atwood, or Donna Tartt, a recent masterpiece by Philip Roth or Toni Morrison, or a "classic" by writers like Dante, Shakespeare, Ernest Hemingway, or F. Scott Fitzgerald's Great Gatsby, our first book. So amazing writers from all different genres, times, cultures, and styles.
What kinds of books have you already featured?
Good question, because the answer will give you a sense of how the VBC works. For our first event in October, we started with a classic, F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, and then for November's event we covered a book "hot off the press," the brilliant Italian writer Elena Ferrante's much-anticipated novel The Lying Life of Adults. So something old, something new, both masterpieces!
What will we discuss at our next meeting on Thursday December 3rd, 6pm?
You're in for a treat! We'll be reading a novel I consider one of the very best of the recent decades: Toni Morrison's extraordinary Beloved...learn more here.
How do I join?
Just click "Join Now" below the above photo of Dante, and you'll be guided through the quick & easy steps to become a member.
What comes with membership?
Each month, Professor Luzzi will give a live presentation on the "Virtual Book of the Month." Soon after you join, you will receive an email with information about the book and a brief "study guide" to help you prepare for the live event. After your first event, all subsequent book choice announcements and study guides will be sent about 4 weeks prior to the next live event.
How long will the events normally last?
One hour: 45 minutes of presentation followed by 15 minutes of Joseph Luzzi answering questions sent in during the talk.
Do I "have to" read the book in order to participate?
No, that's totally up to you! Professor Luzzi will present on the book and assume that not everyone has read it, so you will still learn a lot and be able to join the conversation.
What's the format?
The event will be through Zoom. You don't need an account. Once you register for the Virtual Book Club, you will be sent a link to the event – all you need is that and an Internet connection to join.
Will I need special equipment to watch the events?
Nope, just a computer/screen.
What if I miss an event? Will I be able to watch it later? And what about earlier events before I join, can I see them too?
Yep, all the live events will be available, password protected, for members. You will have access to this Virtual Book Club Archive from the moment you join.
What do you mean by "interactive" events?
Well, that means that after Professor Luzzi's 45-minute presentation, he'll take questions via the Zoom "Chat" function for another 15 minutes or so. And he will also look forward to your feedback on the events/book choices through his website.
What does membership cost?
The standard membership $9.99 per month – or $99 per year, an annual savings of 2 free months. And with your VBCTRIAL discount you get your first month free. If you decide to stay in the VBC, your membership will be renewed automatically at either your monthly or annual rate. There's no contract, you can cancel at any time.
How can I contact you with questions or problems?
