Pushkin House — Attraction in London

Attended a reading group on Chekhov's Uncle Vanya. The facilitator made it clear from the beginning that this would be a ''free and inclusive'' group where all sorts of questions could be explored.

Well, I would take that to mean that people who don't have enough time to read and analyse the works of Chekhov-simply because they have to work in the real world-but are interested in learning more and contributing to the discussion, would be able to get some brief background knowledge of the book and the author so they could say something.

Isn't this what happens with liberal arts courses at universities as well, even though you are supposed to do the reading before you attend the class? If it can happen there then surely it can occur in a book club I presume.

Yet the reading group was heavily focussed on the plot and overall, only those with prior knowledge of the book and the author could comment.

Everything about this ''reading group'' was elitist, pretentious and exclusive and reinforces quite negative, stereotypical views that people have about literature. This comes btw from someone who is an avid reader.

Enjoy your next reading group. I for sure won't be attending and I hope other people will do the same after reading this post. Life is too short, too wonderful, too full of opportunities to waste one's time-in a quite SAD manner to be frank-on pretentious...

Decieving in a pleasant way! A period property serving multiple uses. Arrived at a networking session here, staff were kind and hospitable. Restrooms were clean and spacious. Would recommend for those holding small events. Not however, recommended for larger events i.e. 30...

I had so much fun at yesterday's social event, that apparently takes place on the first Thursday of each month. Don't worry if you don't speak Russian, the place is very inclusive ! Definitely recommend and can't wait to come back for more events - lectures,...