Choosing the Book

Each winter, the public submits suggestions for next year's book. In January, a panel of community members reviews the suggestions, narrowing that list down to 10 titles, and then chooses two or three books to present for a public vote.

The reading panel considers the following when narrowing the list of books:

  1. Is the book written by a noted author?
  2. Does the book contain thought-provoking subject matter that encourages discussion?
  3. Will the book appeal to a cross-generational audience?
  4. Will the book appeal to a diverse audience?
  5. Is the book easy to read and follow?
  6. Is the book available in paperback and other various formats?

The panel looks for books the community will enjoy reading and discussing, that have a broad-based appeal to readers of different backgrounds and reading levels, and that address themes, issues and topics that will encourage and sustain spirited discussion.

 

Previous One Read Selections

2007 "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen
2006 "The Tortilla Curtain" by T.C. Boyle
2005 "Ender's Game" by Orson Scott Card
2004 “Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America”
   by Barbara Ehrenreich
2003 “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
2002 “Plainsong” by Kent Haruf