Following the success of the past four years’ Big Read initiatives, the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge, together with the Staunton Public Library, the Augusta County Library, and the Waynesboro Public Library, have joined together to bring One Book One Community into fruition.
The novel of choice is Clyde Edgerton’s best-selling book, Walking Across Egypt.
“The ultimate objective of this project is not only encouraging people to read, but getting the entire community involved in a literacy project that will span multiple generations. We seek to foster a sense of community and promote discussion among the people of Staunton, Augusta County, and Waynesboro. With our One Book One Community program, we want to celebrate a deeper appreciation for reading and literature,” said Christiana Shields, director of non-profit services for the Community Foundation.
The unpretentious, finely crafted novel captures the habits and manners of a small southern town with characters that range from a strong-minded senior citizen to a juvenile delinquent. Once again, 1,000 copies of the novel are to be given away throughout the community, and events will take place in Staunton, Augusta County and Waynesboro throughout the month of March and into early April.
The community-wide 2012 One Book One Community celebration of Walking Across Egypt, is scheduled to be kicked off with an event hosted by the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge. The event will take place on Tuesday, March 6 at Gypsy Hill Place (300 Churchville Avenue) in Staunton.
The Kickoff will begin in the Wintergarden at 6 p.m., with hors d’oeuvres, drinks and free books and materials. This will be followed by a performance at 7 p.m. in the Ntelos Theater by Middlebrook-based and nationally acclaimed musicians Robin and Linda Williams, as they explore the themes of Edgerton’s novel.
Robin and Linda Williams are known for their rich harmonies and original songwriting rooted in the country/bluegrass/gospel tradition. They have gained widespread national prominence on Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion,” as one-half of The Hopeful Gospel Quartet as well as performing in their own right.
The community is invited and encouraged to attend. Everything, including books and food, is free of charge.
Events will continue all month, including daily read a-louds, a ShenanArts production of the play, book discussions, musical programs, performances, and special meals. A full calendar of events can be picked up at your local library, or accessed at www.sawcommunityread.org.
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Chris Graham
