Friends of Eastcliff Book Club

The Friends of Eastcliff Book Club provides an opportunity for members of the University of Minnesota faculty, staff, alumni and community to participate in the sharing of literature and ideas at Eastcliff, the historic home of the University's President and family.

University President Robert Bruininks and his wife Dr. Susan Hagstrum, with the support of the Friends of Eastcliff have established this book club to showcase University of Minnesota authors who are faculty, staff, alumni or others who have a strong connection to the University. They welcome your involvement in the Book Club discussions, and activities throughout the year.

Joining the Friends of Eastcliff

You can join the Friends of Eastcliff and participate in the Friends of Eastcliff Book Club and other activities throughout the year for an annual membership fee of $100 for individuals or $150 per couple.

The Friends of Eastcliff work to raise funds to maintain, enhance and preserve the historical residence and meeting place of the University of Minnesota.

You may Join the Friends of Eastcliff and the book club online here.You can charge your membership to your Mastercard, Visa, or Discover card. If you prefer to mail your membership, please send a check made payable to:

Friends of Eastcliff Book Club
University of Minnesota Bookstore
Coffman Memorial Union
300 Washington Ave. S.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55455

Donations to the Friends of Eastcliff can also be made securely online at www.giving.umn.edu. Inquiries
about the Friends of Eastcliff can be directed to the University of Minnesota Foundation at 612-624-3333 or Eastcliff at 612-627-6800.

Already a Friend of Eastcliff?
Order the Book Club Selection from the U of M Bookstore and save 20%. You have the option of purchasing the book at the U of M Bookstore at Coffman Union, or ordering it from them online.

Book Discussions

The Friends of Eastcliff Book Club hosts book discussions at Eastcliff throughout the year. Book Club gatherings include a discussion lead by the Friends of Eastcliff and the opportunity to discuss the book with the author and Book Club founders University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks and his wife Dr. Susan Hagstrum.

Upcoming Discussions

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Lebedoff examines the lives and works of two towering figures of twentieth century literature in this unconventional biography of George Orwell and Evelyn Waugh. Lebedoff shows how both writers rebelled against the modern world and dedicated their lives to warning us against what was coming: a world of material wealth but few values. The existence they predicted explains why despite today’s prosperity, so many people feel our society is headed in the wrong direction.

Lebedoff will sign copies of his book following the discussion.

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Hertzberg and Francois created Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day so that baking bread would be easy enough to become a daily ritual for everyone—including those struggling to balance work, family and friends.  Their unique method of refrigerator-stored artisan dough meets the needs of amateurs, while delivering professional results. Learn how to make crusty baguettes, mouth-watering pizzas, and decadent pastries using their innovative techniques and recipes.
Samples of artisan bread will be available for tasting.

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The Stem Cell Dilemma delivers the complete story of stem cell science, starting with Renaissance artist, engineer, and anatomist Leonardo da Vinci to the present. The authors explain the latest developments in stem cell science and how it can revolutionize the world of medicine with new treatments and cures for devastating injuries and disease. Through thoughtful analysis, The Stem Cell Dilemma also addresses the bioethical and biological questions raised and the economic impact around the globe.  Gain valuable insights into this new bio-renaissance and what it means to be human in a technological age.

Furcht and Hoffman will sign copies of their book following the discussion.

Directions to Eastcliff

Eastcliff, the official residence of University presidents, is located on the corner of Mississippi River Boulevard and Dayton Avenue near the St. Paul end of the Lake Street Bridge. Parking is available on Dayton and Otis Avenues and on nearby streets.

From I-94
Take the Cretin-Vandalia exit south to Marshall Avenue. Turn right on Marshall and left on Otis Avenue to Dayton Avenue.

From Lake Street
Travel east over the Lake Street Bridge to Otis Avenue. Take a right on Otis to Dayton Avenue.