Renowned British novelist, C.S. Lewis once said, “You can never have a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.”
And I couldn’t agree more. For most of us, we have our rituals. I’ve mentioned that my morning ritual is waking up, greeting the day and making the perfect cup of tea. But I also have the ritual of drinking a cup of tea while reading a good book. I believe drinking tea and reading books is a natural relationship, don’t you? A few weekends ago when we had that drastic drop in temperature followed by snow my first thought was staying in and curling up with a big cup of tea and a novel by Jane Austen.
If you are a fan of the classics like I am you’ve probably noticed that at the center of almost every social situation one finds tea - specifically, novels centered on the Gothic literary style made popular during the 1790s. With many novels, numerous chapters look at tea in a different context, from taking tea at various times of the day to its function in every aspect of life. Social graces have always dictated that you offer a guest to your home or your establishment a beverage, and most of the time if it’s not a glass of water, it’s a cup of tea.
As the world’s most popular beverage, Tea is experiencing a major comeback as tea bars, tea shops and tea salons are popping up in Great Britain and major cities throughout the United States. Tea has reclaimed its reputation as an important ingredient leading to good health and a balanced lifestyle. Or as I like to say, today we are leading a tea way of life.
When Starbucks joined forces with Barnes & Noble, I thought “genius’’. This is the perfect partnership especially when Starbucks started offering tea. Just like home, (well, almost!) folks could curl up in a chair, with a cup of tea or coffee on the table with a pastry warmed just for them – creating the perfect escape, if only for a little while or until a person takes the seat next to you! Thinking of this concept, in conjunction with my tea business I thought a tea book club would be a great idea. But, this one would be a bit different. Yes, the discussion would center on a shared reading experience, but we would focus on the art of afternoon tea through the lens of novels centered on the Gothic literary style. And the tea and snacks served would somehow relate to the book.
Currently, the PRET-A-PORTEA BOOK CLUB is reading “Mansfield Park” by Jane Austen and we are serving what else? Bingsley Tea – Jane Austen Series. With scones, Bonne Maman Raspberry Preserves and artisanal butters. There’s nothing better than delicious food and great conversation. Come talk tea with us and Jane Austen!
Join the PRET-A-PORTEA BOOK CLUB
Barnes & Noble Union Square (4th Floor)
Saturday, April 22nd @11:00AM
For more information contact us at: papbookclub@gmail.com