MATTOON – The next book discussion group at the Mattoon Public Library is reading The Forgotten Man, a reinterpretation of the Great Depression by Amity Shlaes.
Individual stories from the Depression and the resulting personal character of those who lived through the era are featured in the book, which questions why the Depression lasted so long.
In the discussion format, the library makes available multiple copies, 10 or more, to be checked out to those who plan to participate in the discussion. Discussion of The Forgotten Man is set for 1:30 p.m. Feb. 22. John Dye, a former history teacher and longtime local financial advisor, is the facilitator for the session.
This is the third book to be featured for a discussion group. Previous groups talked about Midnight in the Pacific, facilitated by Chris Suerdieck, and The Handmaid’s Tale, facilitated by Marilyn Thompson.
“Chris Suerdieck brought this idea for discussion groups back from a trip he made to Oregon,” said Library Director Carl Walworth. “With his help, our staff helped get the program started. Both of the first two groups reported positive comments and expressed a desire to continue the program.”
The group that read Midnight in the Pacific chose the book on the Depression, written by a former Wall Street Journal editorial writer.
To participate, simply sign up at the circulation desk in the library or call 234-1710. The library has multiple copies of the book available.