Islington Branch Book Club - Past Titles: "Tolstoy and the Purple Chair" by Nina Sankovitch

1. How does Nina Sankovitch use reading as a form of therapy throughout "Tolstoy and the Purple Chair"? What role does literature play in her grieving process?

2. Sankovitch describes her decision to read a book a day for a year as a way to honor her sister's memory. How does this project evolve over the course of the memoir, and what does it reveal about the author's relationship with her sister?

3. Discuss the significance of the purple chair in Sankovitch's reading journey. What does it symbolize, and how does it impact her experience of reading and reflection?

4. In what ways does Sankovitch connect the books she reads to her personal life and experiences? How do these connections deepen her understanding of herself and her grief?

5. Sankovitch explores themes of family, loss, and resilience throughout the memoir. How do these themes intersect with her reading experiences, and what insights does she gain from the books she reads?

6. Reflect on Sankovitch's reflections on the act of reading itself. How does she describe the power of literature to heal, inspire, and transform?

7. Consider Sankovitch's exploration of different genres and authors throughout the memoir. What patterns or themes emerge in her reading choices, and how do these choices reflect her evolving emotional and psychological landscape?

8. Sankovitch emphasizes the importance of community and connection in her reading journey, from sharing books with family and friends to participating in book clubs. How do these connections enrich her experience, and what role do they play in her healing process?

9. Throughout "Tolstoy and the Purple Chair," Sankovitch reflects on the nature of time and memory. How do her thoughts on these topics evolve over the course of her reading year, and what lessons does she draw from her reflections?

10. Consider the title of the memoir, "Tolstoy and the Purple Chair." What does this title suggest about the central themes and motifs of the book, and how do they resonate throughout Sankovitch's narrative?

Nina Sankovitch is an American author and lawyer known for her memoirs and non-fiction works. She was born in 1963 and grew up in Connecticut. Sankovitch earned her undergraduate degree from Barnard College and her law degree from Harvard Law School. After practicing law for several years, she transitioned to writing, focusing primarily on memoirs and personal essays.

Sankovitch gained widespread recognition with her memoir "Tolstoy and the Purple Chair: My Year of Magical Reading." Published in 2011, the book chronicles her journey of healing through reading a book a day for a year following the death of her sister. "Tolstoy and the Purple Chair" received critical acclaim for its poignant exploration of grief, resilience, and the transformative power of literature.

In addition to her memoir, Sankovitch has contributed essays and articles to various publications, including The New York Times, The Huffington Post, and The Daily Beast. She has also written for online platforms such as The American Scholar and The Rumpus.

Sankovitch's writing often delves into themes of family, memory, and the human experience. Her works are characterized by introspection, emotional depth, and a profound appreciation for the written word.

Beyond her writing career, Sankovitch is known for her advocacy of literacy and reading. She has been involved in initiatives promoting literacy and book culture, and she often speaks at events and book festivals.

Overall, Nina Sankovitch is celebrated for her insightful storytelling, her ability to connect with readers on a personal level, and her advocacy for the transformative power of literature in navigating life's challenges.