January Booked For Lunch
Monday, January 27, 2025 at noon: Swift River by Essie Chambers
Swift River, the debut novel from author Essie Chambers, is a story of first friendships, family secrets, and finding the courage to let go. It’s the summer of 1987 in Swift River, and Diamond Newberry is learning how to drive. Ever since her Pop disappeared seven years ago, she and her mother hitchhike everywhere they go. But that’s not the only reason Diamond stands out: she’s teased relentlessly about her weight, and since Pop’s been gone, she is the only Black person in all of Swift River. This summer, Ma is determined to declare Pop legally dead so that they can collect his life insurance money, get their house back from the bank, and finally move on.
But when Diamond receives a letter from a relative she’s never met, key elements of Pop’s life are uncovered, and she is introduced to two generations of African American Newberry women, whose lives span the 20th century and reveal a much larger picture of prejudice and abandonment, of love and devotion. As pieces of their shared past become clearer, Diamond gains a sense of her place in the world and in her family. But how will what she’s learned of the past change her future?
Regular and large-print copies are available now at the adult circulation desk. Digital editions are available for download using Libby. Join the discussion in person or online via Zoom, on Monday, January 27 at noon. Need the Zoom link? Register using our calendar or by email at RBrzozowski@cwmars.org.
Posted: to Athol Library News on Fri, Dec 27, 2024
Updated: Fri, Dec 27, 2024
