FLO Chennai, under the leadership of Chairperson Dr Amulya Rao, organized an engaging First Book Meet of 2026-27 under its Spark Book Club at FIRO. The session aimed to encourage reading, literary appreciation, and meaningful dialogue among FICCI FLO Chennai members through the Spark Book Club. It provided a platform for members to explore contemporary literature, exchange perspectives, and engage in thoughtful discussions on themes relevant to society, relationships, and personal growth.
The session was moderated by Sucharita Anand and Soundaram Narayanan, Spark Book Champions, in the presence of Ashu Lodha. The moderators facilitated an engaging literary discussion, encouraged member participation, and guided the interactive exchange of perspectives. The first meeting of the Spark Book Club for 2026–27 at FIRO brought together 32 members for an engaging discussion on Atmosphere: A Love Story by Taylor Jenkins Reid, published in 2025.
Set against the backdrop of the 1980s space shuttle programme, the novel explores ambition, sacrifice, love, family dynamics, and the experiences of women pursuing careers in STEM. It also delves into workplace challenges and LGBTQ+ relationships. The interactive discussion created an inclusive environment for literary exchange, allowing participants to explore the novel’s emotional and social themes.
Key Takeaways
- Explored themes of ambition, love, sacrifice, and resilience.
- Discussed women’s representation and challenges in STEM careers.
- Reflected on family dynamics, workplace experiences, and LGBTQ+ relationships.
- Encouraged literary appreciation and diverse perspectives.
- Strengthened member engagement through discussion and networking.
Impact
32 FLO Chennai members participated in the Spark Book Club meetup. The gathering concluded with a high tea networking session, providing members an opportunity to connect and strengthen relationships within the Spark community.