When Every Page Sparked a Conversation: An Encounter with Readers and Writers in Musanze

The meeting room at Isange Paradise Resort was accustomed to the rhythm of demanding workshops and high-stakes conferences—tight agendas and serious faces. But last Friday, April 10, 2026, the atmosphere shifted. Same room, different vibe—more relaxed.

We were there for something different—the 134th Turning Pages Book Club session, a gathering centered not on presentations or deadlines, but on stories, reflection, and the quiet power of shared ideas.

At the center of it all was Magical Musanze, a booklet from Afrika Nzuri’s library. Everyone had read the book beforehand, setting the stage for an engaging exchange. From the beauty of Musanze to the stories and experiences that shape it, the conversation flowed with ease, curiosity, and a few thoughtful detours along the way.

It was the first time the program had brought together a group of avid readers and writers. You could feel it in the way the session unfolded. Ideas were not just shared; they were examined, questioned, and built upon. Their engagement with the book was thoughtful and analytical, turning the discussion into a deep and meaningful dissection of its content.

The session followed a simple structure—introductions, comments, and a Q&A segment.

After the customary introductions, I briefly acknowledged the sponsors behind the tour that led to the publication of Magical Musanze, then handed the floor to the participants. As usual, I chose to speak less and listen more—allowing the group’s invaluable input to take center stage.

What followed was a rich exchange of ideas, reflections, and perspectives. I found myself learning just as much as I shared.

Beyond their strength as readers and writers, the participants were also travel enthusiasts, adding another layer to the conversation and the themes explored in the book. There was something deeply engaging about sharing such moments with like-minded individuals. I was not just facilitating—I felt like a member of the club, with a genuine sense of belonging.

The session was so engaging that even the timekeeper struggled to bring it to a close—a quiet testament to the energy in the room.

This meet-up marked the beginning of an ongoing journey with this group—one that goes beyond the meetings themselves. At some point, an interesting idea began to take shape: what if we moved beyond reading and discussion, and started exploring places and sharing our experiences through writing? That was when the spirit of Turning Pages stretched beyond reading and into creation.

In my closing remarks, I expressed sincere gratitude to the sponsors who made this session possible: Isange Paradise Resort and Beyond the Gorillas Experience (BGE). Their support extended beyond the session itself, nurturing a growing community of readers and writers—where ideas are shared, perspectives are shaped, and a bigger picture comes into view.