Join our virtual community to connect with fellow UNB alumni, faculty and staff as we read and discuss various book genres such as lifelong learning, personal growth, novels and other topics. Participation is free!
There are three main reasons we hope you'll be excited to participate in our book club:
Have you ever thought about running away and starting over?
The Bird Hotel tells the story of Irene, who, after a devastating tragedy, rebuilds her life as the owner of a small hotel in a Central American village. Filled with mystery, romance, humor, and a touch of magic, this sweeping tale spans four decades and brings to life a rich cast of unforgettable characters. Maynard’s lyrical storytelling and vivid world-building make this a story you won’t want to put down.
A note about the author:
During the pandemic, Maynard found herself on the shores of Guatemala's Lake Atitlán, where she wrote The Bird Hotel. Inspired by the lake’s beauty and the people she encountered, the novel grew out of her evenings reading chapters aloud under the stars. After completing the book, Joyce Maynard hired locals from a nearby village to transform her writing retreat into a hotel, mirroring the journey of the protagonist in her story.
