The Events of October: Authors at PDL in October

Posted October 25, 2010 in Books and More, Events

Our October programs for adults include visits from two authors. For additional programs, including business, exhibits, and our new “adult craft night,” see the Portage District Library events calendar.

Open for Discussion: A Day with Award-winning Author Gary Schmidt
Thursday, October 28 6:30-8:00 pm

After spending the day in the Portage middle schools, Gary Schmidt, a professor at Calvin College and author of adult and teen books, will offer a lecture and discussion about his novel, Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy. This award-winning novel is based on the forced removal of residents from Malaga Island, a settlement of slave descendants. The story explores issues of race, community, and the power of an individual to affect change. It is an example of the art of wrapping fiction around a true incident to evoke vivid characters and an intimate perspective on their lives. Audience members will have an opportunity to talk with Mr. Schmidt following the program. A reception and book signing will follow the discussion. Books will be available to purchase. This program is cosponsored by the Southwest Michigan Black Heritage Society and the Race Exhibit Initiative. Support for this program was provided by a grant from the Kalamazoo Community Foundation’s Good Neighbor Grant Program and the Grandmother and CIG Endowment Fund. No registration is required for this free event.