Cabarrus, Davidson, Rowan and Stanly county residents are bonding in the bind of “Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore” by Robin Sloan. Through the 4-1-1 Community Read, the four counties will unite around one book to form one community. The project gives residents an opportunity to read and discuss a single book together for pleasure and enlightenment, while participating in more than 60 events that center on the book’s themes. The feature event is a large-scale Quest for the Code and the project will wrap up with a four-county book tour by the author, Robin Sloan.
This year’s selection, “Mr. Penumbra,” is an exhilarating tale of global conspiracy, complex code-breaking, high-tech data visualization, young love and the secret to eternal life — mostly set in a hole-in-the-wall San Francisco bookstore.
“The committee selected ‘Mr. Penumbra,’ because it covers a wide gamut of themes, including a love for printed books and the amazing things that can happen with technology,” said Dana Eure, director of the Cabarrus County Public Library System. “It’s appropriate for adult readers, but does have appeal for older teen audiences as well.”
Community Read activities are geared toward adult audiences with some programming for teens and children. They will take place throughout March and early April in each of the counties. Take part in book discussions; technology programs, including Wikipedia, blogging and geocaching; and creative programs, like altered books, stamping and a photowalk. Participants can also go on book-lover field trips and join in contests.
With “Mr. Penumbra,” participants can compete for prizes at the free Quest for the Code event on March 15 at the Cabarrus Arena and Events Center. The Quest includes physical and mental challenges, based on the book, including glow-in-the-dark obstacle courses, black light geocaching, riddles, puzzles, trivia and more. You can participate as a team, individual or family group to solve The Founder’s Puzzle.
The book tour and presentations featuring author Sloan will take place April 3-5. Books will be available for purchase and Sloan will be available for autographs.
For a complete listing of events, visit www.411CommunityRead.wordpress.com. Stay informed and become part of the 4-1-1 community by joining the project’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/411CommunityRead.
“Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore” is available in hard copy or electronically at all libraries in Cabarrus, Davidson, Rowan, and Stanly counties.