August 31-September 6, 2026

National Read a Book Day calls all book lovers to indulge in their favorite hobby, guilt-free, every September 6. Dive into a new world, revisit a classic, or discover a new author. Challenge your perspective, expand your knowledge, and share your literary adventures with others.

While National Read a Book Day is believed to have originated in the US, other details of the day’s history are unclear. What is clear, though, is Americans’ love for books! And, for many, this is a welcomed day because 81% of us don’t feel we spend as much time reading as we would like. So, today is the perfect opportunity to set aside a little time to catch up on our “to read” list.

The popularity of book clubs points to our ongoing love for books. In the last few decades, reading has taken on a social element influenced, in large part, by Oprah Winfrey’s Book Club. Starting in 1996, Oprah’s Book Club recommended 70 books contributing to over $55 million in sales, and has been credited with inspiring millions of people to read books.

Over 74% of Americans have read at least one book in the last 12 months. Sure, the busyness of life definitely gets in the way of our reading pursuits with many other activities competing for our time. Luckily, electronic platforms have made it easier for us to read on the go. Almost 20% of books consumed are now via electronic platforms. Whatever format you prefer, grab or download the book on the top of your stack and dive in!

Joslyn celebrates National Read a Book Day with the return of the Virtual Book Club with Sharyn after being on summer hiatus for a few months. Each month, Sharyn will select a new title for the group to enjoy. Then, get together virtually to share thoughts, discuss the story, and maybe even engage in a little lively debate! Whether you agree, disagree, or simply love a good book, everyone is welcome to join the conversation. See below for the next book to read and discuss. Please contact Alex at 760-895-4654 or AlexG@JoslynCenter.org to join the Virtual Book Club or click the button in the ad below.

Abandoned by her mother one Christmas Eve, eleven-year-old Meg Lefleur has learned the hard way to rely on no one. Now one of the unadoptable "big girls" at the Lafayette County Orphan Asylum, she fights each day to keep her spirit unbowed. 

Birdie Calhoun, unmarried and outspoken, has come to Oxford to ask her socialite sister to help the struggling family she’s left behind. But as the Depression tightens its grip, Birdie discovers her sister’s seemingly charmed life is a tapestry of lies. 

Then, Birdie encounters Charlie, a woman running low on luck with little left to lose. When their fates—and Meg’s—converge, Charlie comes up with an audacious plan for them to take control of their lives. But in a place and time where hypocrisy is rife and women’s freedom is fragile, even the smallest act of defiance can have dangerous consequences.

The Calamity Club

by Kathryn Stockett

The Los Angeles Times recently published an intriguing article exploring how balance may be more important to healthy aging than we realize. Research suggests that the ability to stand on one leg can be a powerful indicator of longevity, while poor balance can increase the risk of falls, injuries, and declining mobility. The good news? Balance can be improved at any age through simple exercises that strengthen coordination, stability, and confidence. Discover why balance is a key part of healthy aging—and easy ways to improve yours. Please click on the ad below to read or download the article. Thank you to Henry Basile for bringing the article to our attention.

Join Balance Conditioning with Debbie to work on your balance.

A Minecraft Movie

2025, 1h 41m

Welcome to the world of Minecraft, where creativity is essential to survival! Four misfits—Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison (Jason Momoa), Henry (Sebastian Eugene Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers), and Dawn (Danielle Brooks)—are suddenly pulled through a mysterious portal into the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland fueled by imagination. To get home, they must master this strange world, battle Piglins and Zombies, and join expert crafter Steve on a magical quest that challenges them to be bold and rediscover their unique creativity.

Action / Comedy

Meet at

Alps Village

Unfussy strip-mall restaurant offering classic German fare & imported beers in casual surrounds.

77734 Country Club Dr, Suite F, Palm Desert

Click image for restaurant information.

Please call John at 760-989-7031 for reservations.

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UPCOMING DATES & RESTAURANTS

September 10 - Joe's Sushi-The Cabo Way, Bermuda Dunes - 4PM -

(Reservations required)

September 17 - Da Chef Noodle, Bermuda Dunes - 4PM

September 24 - Project Burger, Palm Desert - 5PM

(Reservations required)

The Business Partner program is one of the reasons Joslyn Center is able to keep membership dues and activities low fee or free. Our business partners also sponsor events and social programs, helping to defray costs. To learn more about Gold Business Partner services, please click their logos below. 

For a full list of Joslyn Center Business Partners, please click below.

For information on becoming a Business Partner,

please contact Alex at AlexG@JoslynCenter.org or 760-895-4652.

The Joslyn Center provides extensive programs and services for older adults in Indian Wells, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and surrounding Coachella Valley communities.

Thank you to the Cities of Indian Wells, Palm Desert, and

Rancho Mirage (Cove Communities) for their ongoing support.