One Book — One Town — 25,031 Opinions

This week the C.H. Booth Library officially launched Newtown Reads, inviting the entire community to read April Morning by Howard Fast during the months of March and April.

Fifteen hundred paperback copies of the books and pins with the Newtown Reads logo are being distributed this week by library volunteers who are encouraging everyone to join this townwide event.

“Everyone, young and old, is encouraged to join in the fun of reading the book, wearing the pin, then attending the activities and book discussions to express their opinions,” said Booth Library Director Janet Woycik.

The book, an all-time best seller of a young man’s baptism by fire during the battle of Lexington at the beginning of the American Revolution, is available at the library. Copies also may be purchased at Barnes & Noble and Borders bookstores.

“Better yet ask someone to pass along a copy to you,” Mrs Woycik said. “Be sure to write your comments on the back page or stop by the library and write comments on the board by the front door.”

On Friday, March 21, at 7 pm at the library, there will be a screening of the 1987 movie April Morning followed by a short discussion.

Several book discussions will be held at the library during April. The first will be on Wednesday, April 2, at 1 pm, in the Special Collections Room.

The weekend of April 25–26 will feature Tavern Night on April 25 at the library (details to be announced) and a reenactment of the book at Fairfield Hills on April 26 from 9:30 to 4 pm.

“So wear your pin, read the book, discuss it, pass it on, and join in the activities,” Mrs Woycik said.

Newtown Reads is modeled after similar programs –– featuring many different books –– that have taken place in more than 100 cities across the country and internationally to promote a sense of community and advocate the joys of reading. The concept was the brainchild of Seattle, Wash., Librarian Nancy Pearl, who liked the idea of bringing a community together for a good read and discussion.

For a list of upcoming activities, check the Newtown Reads website at www.biblio.org/NewtownReads. Residents who would like to host book discussion groups in their own or lead a discussion at the library should call Gordon Williams at 426-6443.