Persepolis chosen for “One Book” program
The future of the city’s Library system is uncertain until the budget is passed, but the One Book One Philadelphia program will continue regardless. Every year the Free Library encourages everyone in the city to read a particular book, and plans events and discussions around it.
The future of the city’s Library system is uncertain until the budget is passed, but the One Book One Philadelphia program will continue regardless. Every year the Free Library encourages everyone in the city to read a particular book, and plans events and discussions around it.
Listen:
[audio: 090914pcbook.mp3]
The graphic novel is called Persepolis, although its author, Marjane Satrapi, prefers to call it a comic book. It’s her personal story about growing up in Iran around the time of the Islamic Revolution, and as a young adult in exile, in Paris. It was made into an animated film in 2007.
Marie Field heads the Library selection committee. She says the recent election protests in Iran clinched the decision when the committee was down to two choices.
Field: It was at last minute we saw what was happening in Iran. It’s a teaching moment for Philadelphia. Shakespeare said there is a time and a tide, and this was the moment to dive in.
Field says the library will work with community groups to develop events for early next year.
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