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Now for some positive news about the Free Library of Philadelphia (finally). The Library and the Mayor’s Office just named Marjane Satrapi’s The Complete Persepolis as the 2010 One Book, One Philadelphia featured reading selection. Now in its eighth year, One Book is an annual city-wide program that encourages more than 10,000 people across the region to read and discuss a single book. The program also serves as a reminder of the relevance of the Free Library, which is particularly apropos at this time.
We are all of course focused on advocating for passage of the state legislation that will prevent our libraries from closing, but at the same time we need to continue planning for the programs and services that make the Free Library such a vital part of our community. One Book, One Philadelphia exemplifies the type of program that adds to the quality of life in our region by promoting literacy, building community, and encouraging great conversations. And this year's selection certainly promises to fulfill the program's goals.
The first graphic novel chosen for One Book, The Complete Persepolis is Satrapi’s poignant, humorous, and heartbreaking memoir of growing up in Iran during a time of political revolution. Her first-person point of view presents readers with a unique glimpse into Iran’s political repression, the inner-workings of a family, and one woman’s experience as an outsider at home and abroad.
Want to be prepared for the One Book program kickoff on January 20? Start reading now—every Library has copies of The Complete Persepolis. And don’t miss your only chance to see Satrapi speak live in Philadelphia on Wednesday, September 23, at 7:30 p.m. at the Parkway Central Library—this event is free and open to the public!
Stay tuned for a complete list of One Book, One Philadelphia events, suggested supplemental reading and film lists, a comprehensive resource guide, and much more! And check back in right here for ongoing One Book coverage during the reading period—every week from now through January, you can share your perspective as we post discussion prompts on chapters of The Complete Persepolis.
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