Articles Archives
Reading for Pleasure
Editorial
Feb. 7, 2007
For the next several weeks, you can expect to hear a lot
of people talking about An Unfinished Life. The novel by Mark Spragg
is this year's selection for the "A Tale for Three Counties"
community reading project.
The project, started five years ago by libraries in Genesee, Orleans
and Wyoming counties, encourages people in the three counties to pick
up and read the same book. Beginning Thursday, you can join a community
of readers when Byron-Bergen Public Library hosts the first book discussion
for this year's "Tale."
A total of 19 book discussions are scheduled at 14 libraries and Genesee
Community College. The discussions are scheduled at night, in the morning
and afternoon. Several libraries are also planning to show and discuss
the 2005 film adaptation of An Unfinished Life, which stars Robert Redford,
Jennifer Lopez, Morgan Freeman and Becca Gardner.
Other local book groups are also reading "Tale," so you may
encounter a conversation in the check out line, or after church on Sunday,
that talks about some element from the book.
While the novel is set in the West, it explores many universal themes
Western New Yorkers can relate to. The story deals with human bonds,
the difficulty people have with change, the longing for family, the
grip of the past and ultimately, the need for forgiveness and reconciliation.
Mr. Spragg gives readers moments of humor, too - the laughter through
the pain - that offer hope that the characters will overcome their difficulties.
The characters are not without flaws, even the apparent good guys, and
each has an obstacle to overcome - a "bear," whether literal
or figurative.
At least 1,000 people have participated in the "Tale" project
each year. Many come back year after year to discover a new author.
They have attended book discussions and other special programs, and
have come to author visits - scheduled March 8-10 this year.
Reading is an important part of our lives. We do it every day - whether
it's this newspaper, a utility bill or a book for pleasure. By promoting
reading, a project such as "Tale" helps to promote literacy
and learning while taking part in a fun event.
The book discussions are informal gatherings, and don't take much time - most last about an hour. It's a short commitment to something that may enrich your own knowledge and introduce you to new people and interests. Contact your local library for more information.
Courtesy of Batavia Newspapers Corporation