On Sunday, March 16th, 2025, the Bookworms Club, the literary arm of FOMRRA, hosted its much-anticipated second meeting at Basil with a Twist restaurant in Sholinganallur. This gathering was more than just a routine event—it was a heartfelt celebration of books, authors, and the thriving literary community that makes OMR’s book culture unique.
A day of books and exchange
The meeting coincided with the 15th edition of the Book Swap, a beloved tradition in OMR. Over 100 books were exchanged, allowing attendees to share their favourite reads, discover new titles, and pass on books that had made a lasting impact. This wonderful exchange not only fostered a love for literature but also encouraged a sustainable way to share stories. The Book Swap was expertly managed by Anitha, Shivani, Purnima, and Aruna, who ensured its smooth execution.
A deep dive into a literary classic
The afternoon’s discussion focussed on Harper Lee’s iconic To Kill a Mockingbird, with moderator Rohini Subramaniam leading the conversation. The group delved into the novel’s timeless themes, examining the consistency of the young narrator, Scout, and reflecting on how Lee’s moral compass shaped the narrative. The discussion also explored the novel’s exploration of justice, racial inequality, and empathy, and how these themes continue to resonate in today’s world, sparking meaningful reflections on these crucial social issues.
Celebrating local talent: Sujatha Rangachari’s debut
A major highlight of the event was the release of When Time Stands Still, the debut novel by local author Sujatha Rangachari. Following the success of two OMR-based books launched during last year’s OMR 360° carnival, Sujatha’s book further added to the growing list of literary talent emerging from the area. Ranjit Narayanan, co-host of the popular online writing forum ArtoonsInn, engaged in an open and insightful conversation with Sujatha, discussing her journey to publication and the challenges authors face today. The conversation also touched on the growing trend of self-publishing, a topic that resonated with many aspiring authors in the audience.
Bookshelf: A Library for Children – Rent, Read, Return
Venkatraman and Sudha, OMR residents, introduced Bookshelf, an innovative online lending library designed specifically for children. With a vast collection of multi-lingual books catering to children aged 3 to 12, Bookshelf allows members to easily rent books online, add them to a cart, and schedule delivery. They also announced an upcoming Storytelling Festival to be held in OMR in May 2025, offering even more literary opportunities for the community to enjoy.
A vibrant literary community
The success of the second Bookworms Club meeting was evident, as attendees left with fresh perspectives on literature and a deeper sense of connection to their local literary community. This carefully curated event, organized by a passionate committee, highlighted the thriving book culture within OMR and underscored the importance of supporting local authors who contribute to Chennai’s rich literary landscape.
Join the FOMRRA Book Club and stay updated on future events: join.fomrra.org
