Long Branch Book Club

Book club set to discuss ‘Spirit of Gonzales’

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The Long Branch Book Club met on Oct. 8, to discuss, “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens. The members liked the book except for one, who thought it was too slow a read. The novel, set in a North Carolina marsh, follows Kya’s struggles to grow up on her own. She was abandoned at the age of eight. Her life was greatly shaped by living in those wilds. Kya met and learned from many other abandoned people and was better for it. All of the book club members took away from the book that “In tough circumstances you learn how strong you are.” All admitted that the ending was unpredictable and shocking. Most of the club would recommend this book for those going through tough times.

The Long Branch Book Club will meet again on Nov. 5 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the “Spirit of Gonzales” by Betsy Wagner. The author will join in the meeting. The book follows the life of Sydnie Gaston, Ms. Wagner’s ancestor, from 1831, through coming to Gonzales, Texas to forge a new life in pioneer times, the battles with the Native Americans and Santa Anna’s Mexican Government. Sydnie, a young girl in 1831, had to grow up fast as her family struggled to just survive.

“There is a spirt of vigor and courage in Texas…In 1831, Sydnie Gaston’s family had that spirit. Like many other families, they left the comforts of their home in the United States to brave the wilds in what was then Mexico. They settled in a village (Gonzales) on the Guadalupe River and were soon swept up in the hardships of pioneer life...Sydnie was one of the many authentic women who fought for a better life in what became the Republic of Texas. And it all started with the Spirit of Gonzales.” Betsy Wagner

Books are available on Amazon or at the Long Branch Saloon located at 315 Saint Lawrence Street in Gonzales. All are welcome join in the discussion and bring snacks to share. For questions call 830-519-4006.

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