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Discussion of a single book and the issues therein to encourage literary reading and to build community by encouraging conversation and the sharing of ideas by members of the community.

Book cover - Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann

2011 Selection.
Our community is reading
Let the Great World Spin
by Colum McCann

In August 1974, a tightrope walker, suspended a quarter mile above the streets of Manhattan, dances his way between the Twin Towers. Below, the lives of ordinary people become entwined in extraordinary ways in this sweepingly radical social novel that captures the spirit of America in a time of transition, promise, and soon-to-be-ended innocence.

Published in 2009, 400 pages

A critically acclaimed novel: ALA Notable Books - Fiction, 2010 Booklist Editors' Choice - Best Fiction Books, 2009 Booklist Editors' Choice - Best Fiction Books, National Book Awards - Fiction, New York Times Notable Books - Fiction and Poetry 2009.

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2011 Finalists. Read about the books.

Criteria:
° A contemporary work of fiction
° Available in paperback
° Accessible to high school students age 16 and up
° A work that lends itself to thoughtful discussion of significant social/cultural issues

More about the 2011 finalists:
	Crescent by Diana Abu-Jaber Set in Los Angeles and peopled by immigrants and Iraqi-Americans, the novel brings alive a vibrant community of exiled academics, immigrants on the make, and optimistic souls looking for love. As it follows the life and love of a thirty-nine-year-old, half-Arab chef, it effectively alters the one-dimensional image of Iraqis held by many Americans. Published in 2004, 352 pages Read the book. Reserve a copy at the Library. Visit your local bookstore.

	2011 Selection. Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann In August 1974, a tightrope walker, suspended a quarter mile above the streets of Manhattan, dances his way between the Twin Towers. Below, the lives of ordinary people become entwined in extraordinary ways in this sweepingly radical social novel that captures the spirit of America in a time of transition, promise, and soon-to-be-ended innocence. Published in 2009, 400 pages Read the book. Reserve a copy at the Library. Visit your local bookstore.

	The Girl Who Fell from the Sky by Heidi Durrow The daughter of a black G.I. and a Danish mother is the sole survivor of a family tragedy. When she moves in with her African-American grandmother in a black community, she must confront her biracial identity in a world that sees in black and white. Published in 2010, 256 pages Read the book. Reserve a copy at the Library. Visit your local bookstore.

	The Help by Kathryn Stockett A story of social awakening as seen from both sides of the racial divide, this novel explores the issue of the lines we abide by and those we don't. In a story filled with humor, poignancy and hope, three women start a movement that changes a town during the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement. Published in 2009, 464 pages. Read the book. Reserve a copy at the Library. Visit your local bookstore.

One Book One Bloomington and Beyond is a project of the City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, Indiana University Libraries Bloomington, Monroe County Community School Corporation, and Monroe County Public Library.

www.mcpl.info/onebook

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