Great Books

Read a popular book that expands your perceptions of the world and challenges your assumptions. Instill an appreciation of how reading a book can impact you and provide life skills. This is not an English literature course, but follows the popular book club format whereas a diverse group of people gather to share and discuss their thoughts and opinions about a particular book and its impact on them. The chosen book will not be one from school readings lists, but from popular fiction or non-fiction. Copies of books will be provided to participants and an audiobook version may be available. Books may be paper copies or in eBook format. Participants will be expected to read the book on their own time and attend, either in-person or virtually, a book club meeting hosted by Oshawa Public Libraries. Participants will answer a series of questions before reading the book, and after reading to gauge the change in their perceptions and the influence the book has on their world-view.

For option 1

In the February session, you and your classmates will choose to read either Emma Donoghue’s The Wonder, a story of religion, faith, and logic or Esi Edugyan’s Washington Black, a story of racism, unlikely friendships, and freedom.

For option 2

In the March session,you and your classmates will choose to read either Michelle Good’s Five Little Indians, a story of trauma, hope, and resilience, or Emma Donoghue’s The Wonder, a story of religion, faith, and logic or Graeme Simsion’s The Rosie Project, a story of autism, social engagement, and opposites attracting.

Inperson discussions will be held at the Delpark Branch to talk about your experience with these stories and share important take-aways.