How to Host a Khaki Town Book Group

Impress your book club with a 1940s themed party to discuss Khaki Town by Judy Nunn.

Judy Nunn’s Khaki Town is set in Townsville during 1942, and bears all the hallmarks of a reading group classic. For a gathering with a difference, how about immersing yourselves in the 1940s? Here are some ideas:

Food to Eat
Anzac biscuits and scones feature throughout Khaki Town. The CWA have terrific recipes for both and they’re easy and quick to make as well.

Anzac Biscuits 

CWA of Victoria

• 1 cup self-raising flour

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1 cup desiccated coconut

• 125 g butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon golden syrup

• 2 tablespoons boiling water

• 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda

Preheat oven to 180°C and grease a baking tray. Sift flour. Place all dry ingredients into a basin, mix thoroughly. Add melted butter, golden syrup and boiling water to which the bicarbonate of soda has been added. Mix to a firm consistency. Place spoonfuls of mixture onto the tray. Bake until brown.

Drinks to Serve
As Khaki Town is set in Townsville, the drink of choice is Queensland’s own Bundaberg Rum. Why not make some delicious cocktails using Bundaberg Rum? You can find some recipes here. 

Music to Listen to
We have created a special Spotify list with songs that are mentioned in the book and others to get you in the mood for your discussion. You’ll find such classics as ‘Minnie the Moocher’, ‘Up a Lazy River’ and many more.

Discussion Points
We’ve put together some great discussion points and questions here.

What to Wear
Here are some ideas if you’d like to dress up:

• Knee-length A-line dresses with puffed shoulders in patriotic colours

• Plaid A-line skirts with white button-down blouses

• Victory suits: man-tailored skirt and jackets

• Wide leg, high-waisted pants

• Workwear overalls and jeans to create the Rosie the Riveter look

• Shoes – peep-toe heels, loafers, oxfords, wedge sandals

• The two-piece bikini

• Hats, turbans, head scarves, snood and flower clips

• Lingerie – seamed stockings, socks, simple bra, girdle, slip and panties.

You’ll find even more information here.

Hairstyles, such as Victory Rolls can be tricky, but here’s a great video that makes it easy.

What Else to Do
Apart from discussing the book, why don’t you try the dance that took the 1940s by storm, the jitterbug?  There’s a step-by-step class here.

Judy Nunn Is Now on Facebook
Finally, if you’d like to win some terrific prizes, please send images to the Judy Nunn Facebook page. You’ll also find updates on Judy’s events and the best photos will win wonderful prizes.