Some participants have brought their own kind of boats like the Chinese dragon boats.

In almost every case, participants bring food for a communal meal intended to reinforce the religious bond that people share.

The price is $1,000 for two; participants must bring a companion or pay the full price and have one provided.

Even detectives get hungry, so participants, ages 8 and 9, should bring a bag lunch.

"People like to come and discuss good books," especially in informal programs to which participants can bring their own experiences, she said.

It apparently involved a full meal, with the participants bringing their own food but eating in a common room.

In the early days of the forum, 30 years ago, participants brought their spouses, who spent the week shopping and skiing.

Books will be for sale, though participants may bring their own.

Some other participants now bring her paper and other left-over supplies.

All participants should also bring a laptop if they have one.