The Bunco Club

While the women in this book do play many rounds of the game, The Bunco Club is actually not about Bunco. It’s about eight friends and how they support each other through difficult and momentous times.

The book’s structure is unique. Instead of having a single point-of-view, the perspective shifts along with the Bunco box. The women take turns hosting their monthly meeting, so we get to see the world through the eyes of each month’s hostess. This occasionally makes it feel like a collection of short stories, with some of the women’s tales almost entirely self-contained. There are a few stories that continue throughout the book, and these plot threads, along with the constant presence of the dice game, tie the chapters together. The book almost feels like a version of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants written for adults.

The stories themselves are beautiful. Encompassing all aspects of life – the highs and the lows – they include discovering a fortune, dealing with a difficult son, falling in love, and more. While some of the events are a little unbelievable (Oprah makes an appearance), most of them are firmly rooted in real life and real emotions. I think a lot of readers will be able to empathize with these characters.

Unfortunately, with eight main characters and all of their families appearing in the book, it can be hard to keep track of everybody and remember who is who. Luckily, the segmented nature of the book prevented this from being a huge problem. It was ok if I didn’t remember a minor character mentioned in a previous chapter, because he probably wouldn’t be playing a large role elsewhere.

Despite the minor flaws and disconnects, The Bunco Club is a powerful testament to the strength and importance of friendships. The characters are real, and the emotions are powerful. There is a lot of heart and a lot of fun in here. Plus, there are tasty recipes in the back! Inspired by the game night menus, these are the perfect complement to this charming book. It is just all-around lovely.