When I heard that “Hello Stranger” by Katherine Center was going to be the next First Thursday book, I had my doubts about how much there would be to discuss. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good romance novel, but it’s not what I usually expect to read for a book club. If that’s your concern too, you can stop worrying.
Center is a smart and thoughtful writer, and while her books pivot around a central theme of love, there are more layers to be found — and discussed.
Among the layers in this particular book, are the ideas of cognitive bias and confirmation bias. If you don’t know what these are are, read “Hello Stranger.” I can’t imagine a more enjoyable introduction to the concepts. If you’re already familiar with them, read “Hello Stranger” and enjoy watching the concepts in action.
Other themes include living with an invisible disability, surviving grief and loss, and a dash of neuropsychology.
Perhaps the biggest source of discussion could be the confirmation bias (or pre-judgements) about the romance genre. Take a moment to check the bias you may be bringing to this book and this genre before you read it. Join us Thursday, January 2nd at noon to share your thoughts.
