GrotonREADS 2010!
The Old American by Ernest Hebert
GrotonREADS is a community-wide program (now in its sixth year) sponsored by the GPL Endowment Trust and hosted by the Groton Public Library. Adults and high school students are invited to read and discuss the same book during the month of March. Middle school students will read the companion book The Ransom of Mercy Carter and younger children will have many options to read books based on a similar theme. Everyone can get involved!
This year’s selection is The Old American by Ernest Hebert. Based on a true story, Hebert tells the story of Nathan Blake, who in 1746 was abducted by Algonkians from his home on the Massachusetts/New Hampshire border. Nathan develops a unique relationship with his captor, the Old American, a genius leader and complex character, before he returns to his family.
The Old American will inform readers about a time in Massachusetts history that is frequently overlooked. Groton has a significant history in the era of the French and Indian Wars, which we will discover thorough programs in coordination with the Groton Historical Society, the Williams Barn Committee, Fruitlands Museum, the Old Burial Ground, and more.
Thanks to the GPL Endowment Fund, the Library will distribute 90 free copies of The Old American starting Sunday, January 10, in the Community Room from 1-4 pm. Ten copies of the book are available to check out at the library.
- Kick-Off Event
Sunday, January 10, 1-4 pm, Community Room
Pick up a copy of the book, hear a dramatic reading of selections from the book by Hannah Mattison, enjoy some popcorn and cider. - An evening with the Groton Historical Society
Tuesday, March 2, 7:30-8:30 pm, Sibley Hall
Learn about Groton history in Colonial times. - Book Group
Thursday, March 4, 7:30-8:30 pm, Sibley Hall
Join the Middle School Book Discussion to discuss The Ransom of Mercy Carter. - First American Festival
Saturday, March 6, 10 am-2 pm, MacNeil Lounge, Lawrence Academy
Sample early Native American food, hear demonstrations from Fruitlands Museum & more. - Book Group
Tuesday, March 9, 7:30-8:30 pm, Community Room
Teens and adults discuss The Old American. - Author Visit: Ernest Hebert
Sunday, March 14, 2-4 pm, Sibley Hall
Meet author Ernest Hebert, hear him speak about The Old American, have your book signed! - Native American Nature Tales with storyteller Diane Edgecomb
Thursday, March 18, 7-8 pm, Sibley Hall
For families and children ages 5 & up. - Walking through Time with The Old American
Saturday, March 20, 10 am-2 pm, start from Sibley Hall
An exploration of historic sites around Groton. - GrotonREADS Family Activity Day
Sunday, March 21, 10 am-2 pm, Williams Barn (160 Chicopee Road)
Featuring a sap boil, Native American archeological artifacts, indigenous traditional farming, the Nugumij Drummers, demonstrations & more! - Book Group
Thursday, March 25, 7:00-8:30 pm, Sibley Hall
Join the GPL Book Discussion Group to talk about The Old American. All are welcome! - Meet Mrs. Mary Rowlandson: A Puritan Woman in Captivity
Tuesday, March 30, 7:30-8:30 pm, Sibley Hall
A program written and performed by Katie Green.
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