2021 GCLS Community Read

 

Join GCLS all month long in reading and celebrating the literary classic Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston!

Why are we reading Their Eyes Were Watching God?

The epic tale of Janie Crawford, whose quest for identity takes her on a journey during which she learns what love is, experiences life’s joys and sorrows, and come home to herself in peace. This book is considered a masterpiece of the Harlem Renaissance and is regarded as highly influential to both African-American and women's literature. It was also chosen by Time Magazine as one of the 100 greatest books of all time. A short read, but deeply engrossing, this books hits on a number of themes and its critical acclaim makes it an excellent choice for our community read.

How do I get involved?

Read the book and come participate in book discussions and other exciting programs all month long! If you need a copy of the book, you can place a hold on one. You can also read the eBook or listen to the eAudiobook on Hoopla.

Looking for more information on Zora Neale Hurston?

Check out one of her biographies, read some of her other works, and experience her works through film with Kanopy.

Book Discussions and Virtual Events

 

Monday, April 5th @ 6:00 pm - Family Cooking Class: Cuisine of the Deep South

Join Lisa from Veggiecation for a LIVE cooking class! We will be making black eyed peas and peach salsa.

Monday, April 5th @ 7:00 pm - Readers Roundtable Kick-Off Book Discussion

Kick Off the Community Read and join our first discussion of Their Eyes Were Watching God.

Wednesday, April 7th @ 7:00 pm - Unlearning Partner Violence

Join a representative from Services Empowering Rights of Victims for a presentation and discussion on partner violence. Learn the signs and tips on how to help someone.

Monday, April 12th @ 7:00 pm - Hip Hop Jazz Musicology

Join us for an interactive presentation with Ali Richardson. Learn the origins of hip hop music through spirituals, blues, and jazz - all while learning links to key historical movements that connect the music.

Monday, April 12th @ 7:00 pm - History Book Club

GCLS' resident historian, Mr. Ben, will discuss "All Blood Runs Red: The legendary Life of Eugene Bullard - Boxer, Pilot, Soldier, Spy" by Phil Keith and Tom Clavin

Tuesday, April 13th @ 7:00 pm - Fair Housing and Consumer Protections

A representative from Ney Jersey Citizen Action will help you understand your fair housing rights and protections.

Wednesday, April 14th @ 3:00 pm - Virtual Book Discussion

Join us for a virtual book discussion on Their Eyes Were Watching God!

Tuesday, April 20th @ 7:00 pm - Virtual Film Discussion on Zora Neale Hurston: Jump at the Sun

Join us for a virtual discussion of the film!

Wednesday, April 21st @ 7:00 pm - Virtual Discussion with Dr. Keisha Blain

Join GCLS as we discuss African-American history and culture with the acclaimed author and scholar, Dr. Keisha Blain. She is a contributor to the recent book with Dr. Ibram Kendi Four Hundred Souls as well as a current fellow at Harvard University's Carr Center for Human Right Policy.

Monday, April 26th @ 4:00 pm - Virtual Book Discussion

Join us for a virtual book discussion on Their Eyes Were Watching God!

Monday, April 26th @ 7:00 pm - Harriet Tubman Museum Presentation

Join GCLS for a historical presentation from the Harriet Tubman Museum.