SOKY Reads!
SOKY Reads! is a community reading program that spotlights one book and one author each year. As part of the program, the Book Fest partners distribute up to 500 copies of the selected book in the area, and it offers each reader the chance to join a community-wide conversation about that book. The author of the selected book visits local schools in Bowling Green and does a writing workshop, a presentation, and participates in special events.
This year, we are featuring Dear Martin, by Nic Stone. A schedule of book giveaways, discussion opportunities, and more will be available in August. Read more about Nic and her work below!
September 28, 6:00pm at the Bob Kirby Branch Library | 175 Iron Skillet Ct., Bowling Green KY
October 10, 7:00pm in the Russell Miller Theatre | WKU Fine Arts Center
About the Book
Justyce McAllister is top of his class, captain of the debate team, and set for the Ivy League next year—but none of that matters to the police officer who just put him in handcuffs. He is eventually released without charges (or an apology), but the incident has Justyce spooked. Despite leaving his rough neighborhood, he can’t seem to escape the scorn of his former peers or the attitude of his prep school classmates. The only exception: Sarah Jane, Justyce’s gorgeous—and white—debate partner he wishes he didn’t have a thing for.
Struggling to cope with it all, Justyce starts a journal to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. But do Dr. King’s teachings hold up in the modern world? Justyce isn’t so sure.
Then comes the day Justyce goes driving with his best friend, Manny, windows rolled down, music turned up. Way up. Much to the fury of the white off-duty cop beside them. Words fly. Shots are fired. And Justyce and Manny get caught in the crosshairs. In that media fallout, it’s Justyce who is under attack. The truth of what happened that night—some would kill to know. Justyce is dying to forget.
…the work…stands apart in a literature that too often finds it hard to look hard truths in the face. Take interest and ask questions.
Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
Nic Stone was born and raised in a suburb of Atlanta, GA, and the only thing she loves more than an adventure is a good story about one. After graduating from Spelman College, she worked extensively in teen mentoring and lived in Israel for a few years before returning to the US to write full-time. Growing up with a wide range of cultures, religions, and backgrounds, Stone strives to bring these diverse voices and stories to her work.
You can find her goofing off and/or fangirling over her adorable little family on most social media platforms as @getnicced.
Nic will be visiting Bowling Green as the featured author at YAS Book Con on October 19, 2018 from 9am-2pm at Western Kentucky University’s Downing Student Union. Schedules and more information are at yasbookcon.org.
Book donations are made possible through generous support from Graves Gilbert Clinic.
