ICES Book Club

Literary books discussed academically!

Interested in diving into more fiction but struggling to find the motivation and time? The Book Club offers an opportunity to connect with new people while exploring captivating books. Gather with us every other Wednesday on campus or online for engaging discussions, book chats, and a delightful atmosphere.

The Book Club leverages literature as a catalyst for engaging academic discussions. By exploring themes such as culture, identity, relationships, and a sense of belonging, participants get in touch with a rich tapestry of perspectives and insights. In addition, the club also aims to foster discourse on contemporary issues such as political participation, human rights, and other pertinent topics shaping the societal landscape. This multifaceted approach ensures that the discussions not only illuminate the timeless themes within literature but also connect them to the pressing concerns of our current times.

Participating in book clubs offers an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues and students, gain valuable life insights, and enjoy a pleasant experience.

How does it work?

We meet every other Wednesday starting from the 20th of March, 2024. The meetings will be held on campus and online, from 12 to 1 pm.

Every semester will come with a new theme and we will collectively propose and select the book of the semester. You will have the necessary time to vote and propose books by using the link sent to you by email, and the chosen book will be announced timely.

All meetings will be held in English.

Everyone is welcome: Bachelor and Master students as well as PhD candidates and Postdocs. 

This semester’s theme: Emigration and Borders

"Emigration and Borders" is a compelling theme that delves into the experiences of individuals and communities navigating the challenges associated with migration, immigration policies, and the physical or metaphorical borders that shape their lives. This theme opens up discussions on identity, displacement, belonging, and the broader impact of geopolitical decisions.
This theme addresses the complexities of identity, the challenges faced by those in transit, and the socio-political factors influencing migration patterns. It invites readers to reflect on the human stories behind geopolitical decisions and the consequences of border-related policies.

The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri

The unforgettable love story of a mother blinded by loss and her husband who insists on their survival as they undertake the Syrian refugee trail to Europe. Nuri is a beekeeper; his wife, Afra, an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends, in the beautiful Syrian city of Aleppo--until the unthinkable happens. When all they care for is destroyed by war, they are forced to escape. But what Afra has seen is so terrible she has gone blind, and so they must embark on a perilous journey through Turkey and Greece towards an uncertain future in Britain. On the way, Nuri is sustained by the knowledge that waiting for them is Mustafa, his cousin and business partner, who has started an apiary and is teaching fellow refugees in Yorkshire to keep bees. As Nuri and Afra travel through a broken world, they must confront not only the pain of their own unspeakable loss, but dangers that would overwhelm the bravest of souls. Above all, they must journey to find each other again. Moving, powerful, compassionate, and beautifully written, The Beekeeper of Aleppo is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit. It is the kind of book that reminds us of the power of storytelling.

Contact

In case you have any questions in regard to the book club, or you want to make a suggestion, please feel free to contact Ms. Tea Hodaj, tea.hodaj-TextEinschliesslichBindestricheBitteEntfernen-@studierende.uni-flensburg.de / Gebäude Riga 3, Raum 304.

WebEx Link:

We meet every other Wednesday starting from the 27th of March, 2024. The meetings will be held on campus (RIGA 601) and online (https://uni-flensburg.webex.com/uni-flensburg/j.php?MTID=m3e8f285fdb1211a96ea23be6b299c410 ), from 12 to 1 pm. All meetings will be held in English. Everyone is welcome: Bachelor and Master students as well as  PhD candidates and Postdoc.