One Book, One Chicago Fall 2007
Introduction
Greetings,
As Mayor and on behalf of the City of Chicago, I invite you to participate in the 12th One Book, One Chicago program presented by the Chicago Public Library. This award-winning program encourages all Chicagoans to read the same book at the same time and to gather together in discussion with friends and neighbors.
This fall, we have selected The Crucible by Arthur Miller. Steppenwolf Theatre will be presenting this important play on their stage this fall, and we are pleased to have them as a partner on this fall’s One Book, One Chicago.
Miller is an icon of 20th century American theater and letters, and The Crucible is one of his most often read, taught and produced works. Miller’s play reminds us that we must never forget the lessons of the past in order to understand the present. Just as The Crucible uses the Salem witch trials of 1692 to bring attention to the injustices of the McCarthy hearings of the 1950s, we must look at both eras as lessons in the dangers of fear and the importance of understanding others in our community.
You can find a copy of The Crucible at your neighborhood Chicago Public Library or local bookstore. Please join in one of the many book discussions planned for libraries, bookstores, universities and theaters throughout September and October.
Sincerely,
Richard M. Daley
Mayor