Ballard (center) is pictured with her Great Books friends Michaela Baker (left) and Diane Klajbor (right).
How long have you been going to Great Books?
I've attended Great Books since its inception in 1996. My husband was a student at MSOE at the time and received a brochure in the mail announcing the start of the Great Books discussions. He handed me the brochure and said, "This is definitely more for you than me." The rest is a spectacular history of engaging books, lively discussions and delicious meals.
What have been your three favorite books so far?
This is horribly restrictive, but Love in the Time of Cholera, The Pillars of the Earth and Possession because these were books that either introduced me to a new author (The Pillars of the Earth, Possession) or gave me new appreciation for a book I struggled with the first time I read it (Love in the Time of Cholera).
What do you like about Great Books?
The best parts about Great Books are how the discussions open me up to new books, new genres, new ideas and, for me, new friends. I met fellow book lover, Diane Klajbor at Great Books early on. Diane, Michaela Baker, a friend I invited to the discussions a few years back, and I look forward to each discussion together.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about going?
Don't think about it too much - pick up the book, read it and join us for great books, great people and great food. I guarantee you will stretch your book brain and have a fabulous evening out.