Two Books Two Communities is hosting a series of events surrounding its 2023 selections: Chevy in the Hole, a novel set in Flint, Mich., by Kelsey Ronan; and A Psalm for the Wild-Built, a “solar punk” sci fi novella set on a rewilding moon, by Becky Chambers.
Chevy in the Hole is described as a gorgeous and unflinching love letter to Flint and the resilience of its people. The novel follows August “Gus” Molloy after he moved back to his hometown to battle his issues with substance use, as well as stories from his and his friend's families woven throughout the narrative. The book was a New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice and a 2023 Michigan Notable Book.
A Psalm for the Wild-Built is the first book in the Monk and Robot book series. The story takes place centuries into the future, years after the robots of Panga gained self-awareness and laid down their tools, leaving them wandering en masse. Eventually, the robots became nothing more than urban legend, until a tea monk's life was upended by a robot seeking to answer a question: “What do people need?” The book won the prestigious Hugo Award in 2022.
Events:
September 26 • 6pm
Alger Reads, open to all, will meet to discuss A Psalm for the Wild Built and Chevy in the Hole. Copies are available at the library and digitally through Libby.
Munising School Public Library
September 27 • 5:30pm
Kelsey Ronan presentation and discussion of Chevy in the Hole.
Munising School Public Library.
September 28 • 7pm
Kelsey Ronan presentation and discussion of Chevy in the Hole.
Northern Michigan University, Olson Library Atrium, Marquette.
October 3 • 6:30pm
Book discussion on both titles.
Peter White Public Library, Marquette.
October 12 • 6:30 - 8pm
Let's Talk About Addiction
Peter White Public Library Heritage Room, Marquette.
A community discussion with panelists representing multiple perspectives. Led by Ashly Gleason, Health Education/Prevention Specialist with Marquette County Cares Coalition.
A virtual presentation by Becky Chambers had been scheduled for October 10, but had to be cancelled due to a personal, unforeseen circumstance.
All events are free and open to everyone.
The Two Books Two Communities program fosters a sense of community by bringing together Northern Michigan University and Marquette and Alger County readers. To see the book selections from the past 17 years and learn more, see nmu.edu/onebook/twobooks.
