A Fond Farewell:

[jweinstein]

When I began moderating discussion on Barnes and Noble three years ago it was my belief that online discourse would prove itself to be not only essential as an extension to the conversations we have in the world of bricks and mortar, but a new frontier as well.

I saw earlier on, working on PBS’s American Love Stories, that when you remove the geographic constraints and the inhibitions, not to mention biases, that are attendant with face to face introductions, that it's possible to bridge chasms and to foster understanding.

This experience has more than validated my feelings on the topic. I have enjoyed the candor and insights of the regular book club members and have learned much from the authors that have made BN.com a port of call.

An unexpected pleasure that this gig has given me is reading outside of my comfort zone. While we often pick up familiar authors and genres, it is rewarding to jump into the unknown, discovering worlds unimagined.

Thank you to Susan Isaacs and Chris Bohjalian for making this a most enjoyable last month.

-Jerry the Mod(erator)
3/29/07

[Bill_T]

I just want to say on behalf of the editorial and admin staff at the B&N book clubs, the very great appreciation felt here for Jerry's enormous contribution over the last several years to book clubs here at BN.com.

As I noted in the Chris Bohjalian group, Jerry's voracious mind and love of reading are well-known to anyone who has had the pleasure of being part of one of his moderated discussions. He has brought a passion for ideas as well as a genuine love for the conversation to each and every book club he's moderated.

Jerry, all of your colleagues here salute you, and wish you all the best.