DEAR ABBY: A few years ago, my mom and I started a book club. For the most part, it's been a lot of fun. But one member, "Maeve," has to be the smartest person in the room no matter the topic. She often belittles other members she considers less educated than she is. She also frequently doesn't read or finish the book. She uses the excuse of, "Oh, I read that years ago, and I didn't have time to review it again."
Maeve is retired, and I don't mean to judge what she does with her time but, if all of us who are working can find time, surely she can too. Abby, would it be terrible to ask her to leave the book club? Every other member has complained to either me or my mom about Maeve. What should we do? -- BOOK ADDICT IN THE SOUTH
DEAR BOOK ADDICT: Talk privately with Maeve. Tell her how her actions have made the rest of the members uncomfortable and give her some examples. Then tell her that if she can't keep up with the reading and contribute in a positive manner -- which is the reason the club was formed -- she should withdraw.