Bestselling author Paulette Jiles to discuss 'News of the World' July 27 with Gail Borden
On Tuesday, July 27, Gail Borden Public Library's One Book, One Community initiative will present "A Conversation with Paulette Jiles," bestselling author of "News of the World" at 7 p.m.
The book was chosen for the library's first One Book, One Community program taking place now through August. Registration for the online discussion can be found atgailborden.info.
Jiles will talk about the research and history she delved into for the book, from the Civil War to 19th-century Texas culture to the subject of captives held by the Kiowa and Comanche tribes.
She will share the stories behind the creation and development of her fascinating characters in "News of the World," a National Book Award Finalist. Her novels include "Enemy Women," "Stormy Weather," and "The Color of Lightning."
Released as a movie starring Tom Hanks last year, "News of the World," which can be borrowed from the library in a variety of formats, features Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd. He is an elderly widower who travels from town to town in northern Texas in 1870 to read the news to eager audiences.
Kidd's world changes when the U.S. Army offers him $50 to return a ten-year-old to her family. Johanna was taken from her family and raised by Kiowa raiders. She cannot speak English and comes from a culture unknown by the captain. The Captain and Johanna must travel 400 miles through dangerous country.
Several programs have been scheduled throughout the summer to enrich the reading experience and provide opportunities for readers in the community to discuss the book.
On Tuesday, Aug. 3, local historian Jerry Turnquist will present "News of the World in Elgin" from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Meadows Community Room at the main library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin.
Join in a community screening of the movie from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 24. Registration is required as seating is limited.
Two in-person and one virtual book discussion will be offered over the next month; registration is required for all book discussions. Readers, from high-school age to adults, are invited to in-person book discussions from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 24, in the Hoffer Room of the South Elgin Branch; or 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 12 in the Grove Room of the main library.
A virtual program, especially for widows and widowers, will be offered from 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Aug. 17.
For information about One Book, One Community and News of the World programs, visit gailborden.info/onebook.