Please join us at Castleton Free Library as we examine timely themes through a series of events centered on the 2018 Vermont Reads book "Bread and Roses, Too" by Vermont author Katherine Paterson. This accessible young adult novel tells the story of the "Bread and Roses" strike through the eyes of an Italian-American girl and a runaway boy. The novel relates the journey of Rosa, who, along with Jake and other children, are sent temporarily out of harm's way to foster families in Barre, Vermont, as children actually were during the strike.Thanks to a generous grant from the Vermont Humanities Council, we have 75 copies of the book, available now, to circulate freely in our community.

We will be holding our first event, a general introduction to places and themes in the book, on Tuesday September 4th (the day following Labor Day!) at 7:00 p.m. The evening will include a visual presentation of period photos, film clips related to the strike, images of labor paintings by folk artists, and background on Katherine Paterson's work. Participants don't need to read the book before this event, but those who have will be invited to share first impressions. We'll generate discussion topics for a more structured book discussion to be held at a later date. The program will end with informal social time, including homemade bread and recordings of labor songs. Pick up a copy of the book anytime, now or at the program.

This program is free and open to all - accessible entrance on the north side of the building. Questions: castletonfreelibrary@gmail.com or 802-468-5574.