Li’l Weirdos

Come join us for Li’l Weirdos, where we’ll explore the world of literature through the lens of short, strange books. Often literary, sometimes freaky, but always weird, these books will span genres, but they will all make you say “what the fuck did I just read?” Come join Ellyn, one of Dog-Eared’s co-owners, and Mariah, its most voracious book-clubber as we dive into some of the most ineffable books the world has to offer.

This month’s book is Mouth to Mouth by Anton Wilson

In a first-class lounge at JFK airport, our narrator listens as Jeff Cook, a former classmate he only vaguely remembers, shares the uncanny story of his adult life—a life that changed course years before, the moment he resuscitated a drowning man.

Jeff reveals that after that traumatic, galvanizing morning on the beach, he was compelled to learn more about the man whose life he had saved, convinced that their fates were now entwined. But are we agents of our fate—or are we its pawns? Upon discovering that the man is renowned art dealer Francis Arsenault, Jeff begins to surreptitiously visit his Beverly Hills gallery. Although Francis does not seem to recognize him as the man who saved his life, he nevertheless casts his legendary eye on Jeff and sees something worthy. He takes the younger man under his wing, initiating him into his world, where knowledge, taste, and access are currency; a world where value is constantly shifting and calling into question what is real, and what matters. The paths of the two men come together and diverge in dizzying ways until the novel’s staggering ending.

Sly, suspenseful, and “gloriously addicting” (BuzzFeed), Mouth to Mouth masterfully blurs the line between opportunity and exploitation, self-respect and self-delusion, fact and fiction—exposing the myriad ways we deceive each other, and ourselves.

Purchase a copy to read, or grab it from the library, and join us at Dog·Eared Books at 6 PM on January 10th, to discuss the book with book club hosts, Ellyn and Mariah! This book club is free to anyone who wishes to participate, no registration necessary.

Also, for 20 minutes after each club meeting, you will receive 20% off all books and merchandise!

Content Warnings for The BOO*-k Club 2024-2025
Content Warnings for Mouth to Mouth
Content Warnings for Ghostroots
Content Warnings for The English Understand Wool
Content Warnings for Assembly
Content Warnings for Greek Lessons
Content Warnings for Everyone on the Moon is Essential Personnel