Readings on Race is a monthly discussion group sponsored by the library, focusing on issues of race. The group generally meets once a month on Saturdays, to discuss a book or other resources on a particular topic or theme. Attendance can be in person at the library or by zoom. To join via Zoom, please click here to register. This month's book is Out of Nowhere by Maria Padian, and the discussion will be held January 28 at 2pm.

Readings on Race is led by a group of committed community members. Past readings and topics can be found here. 

All Readings on Race meetings are free and everyone is welcome. Readings and copies of the book for each meeting are generally available at the library 3 weeks or so ahead of each date. For more information, call the library at 374-5515.

A description of the book written by a group member, Ingemar, age 14, is below. 

The book Out of Nowhere by Maria Padian tells the story of a young refugee who struggles to fit in with American society. However, the story is not told from the refugee’s perspective and is instead narrated from an American teenager’s perspective. The book's main character, Tom, forms a connection with Saeed, a refugee, through soccer and talks about the challenges that both he and Saeed have in common.  The book takes place in a fictional town in Maine (outside of Portland). Saeed struggles to speak English and is bullied for his religion and ethnicity. What makes it harder for Saeed is the fact that he is not the only immigrant that has arrived; many other refugees arrived in a short time, seemingly “out of nowhere.” Many mixed opinions arise on the immigrant situation, some people love it, some hate it. Will the town be able to handle the immigrants and make everyone happy? Or will they crumble under the stress? And what will happen to Saeed?

As a young teen I would recommend this book to adolescents or anyone that is moving to a new country and has trouble fitting in. This book makes you feel like you are not alone. I could relate to many aspects of the book, not only as someone who is a teenager but also as someone who has recently moved to a new country. This book helped me understand how Saeed overcame his problems and it has motivated me to keep going.