One Book, One Chicago Fall 2012
Welcome
City of Chicago, Mayor Rahm Emanuel,
presented by the Chicago Public Library,
the Chicago Public Library Foundation and
Dear Friends:
As Mayor, and on behalf of the City of Chicago, I encourage you to take part in the Chicago Public Library’s One Book, One Chicago program this fall. Join all of Chicago in reading The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and attending programs and discussions throughout October.
The Book Thief is a remarkable novel that Chicagoans of all ages will relish the chance to read for the first time or again, along with the entire city. Set in a small town in Germany during World War II, the novel is narrated by a sympathetic Death, and tells the story of Liesel, a young foster girl who in the midst of one of the darkest times in history learns to read, to survive and to stand up for what is just and humane.
This award-winning novel explores young people’s choices and their potential as civic participants, a theme that ties into the partnership called Now Is The Time between the Chicago Public Library, Steppenwolf Theatre and Facing History and Ourselves. NITT programming, exhibits and more throughout 2012-13 will explore what individual choices such as Liesel’s mean in times of violence. I applaud these three institutions for creating the space for us to do just that, especially with our young adults. Visit the website to learn more.
One Book, One Chicago discussions and events take place throughout October, including two appearances by Markus Zusak on October 22 at the Harold Washington Library Center; the Steppenwolf Theatre adaptation of The Book Thief and a conversation with Paul Rusesabagina exploring the atrocities of war on October 16 at the Harold Washington Library Center.
For more than a decade One Book, One Chicago has engaged and challenged readers in Chicago. Chicagoans from every neighborhood and of all ages are brought together to immerse themselves in a great work of literature. Visit your library and check out a copy of The Book Thief, take part in a discussion or attend any number of programs or performances. To learn more, inquire at your local library or visit the website.
Sincerely,
Mayor Rahm Emanuel
Presented as part of
Follow One Book, One Chicago
