PORT TOWNSEND — For the sixth year, the Port Townsend Library is sponsoring a “community reads” program, during which hundreds of people read the same book while engaging in discussions about it and its themes.
This year’s book is The Forest Lover by Susan Vreeland, a fictionalized biography of Canadian artist Emily Carr.
Carr, who was born in Victoria in 1871, was an influence on artists such as American Georgia O’Keefe and Mexican Frida Kahlo.
The book was chosen due to its connection to the arts, recognizing that Port Townsend is an artistic community, according to librarian Theresa Percy.
“Of all the programs the library offers, community reads is one of the best ways to engage people with the library,” Percy said.
“It brings a diverse group of people for discussion and offers the opportunity to expand on the book through various media.”
Those wishing to participate should acquire a copy of the book, which is available for regular library loan or for purchase at William James Booksellers, 829 Water St., at a 10 percent discount.
The library is also giving away 70 copies, asking that it be passed on to others when the reader is finished.
There are five scheduled discussion events: 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, at the Undertown Cafe, 211 Taylor St; 10 a.m. Thursday, March 10, at Courtyard Cafe, 230 Quincy St.; 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 15, at the Port Townsend Library, 1220 Lawrence St.; 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 16, at the Northwind Arts Center, 2409 Jefferson St.; and 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at the Hilltop Tavern, 2510 W. Sims Way.
The final event will be an appearance by Vreeland at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 24, in the Port Townsend High School auditorium.
“We never pick a book where we can’t get the author to appear,” Percy said.
Aside from the discussions related directly to the book, several special events are scheduled, including two that discuss Carr, her life and her art.
Percy said thousands of people participate in the program as the books are passed on during the year,
“This program helps showcase the library as a major influence in people’s lives,” she said.
“It portrays the library to the community in a unique, appropriate way.”
For more information, visit www.ptpubliclibrary.org.
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.