Bestselling author Pat Conroy's My Reading Life has been selected as the 2014 One Book, One Columbia title for the month-long, city-wide reading initiative that kicks off in February 2014.
My Reading Life acknowledges how books have shaped Conroy's life, and celebrates the profound effect that books and reading have had on his journey through an array of anecdotes interlaced with personal stories, wisdom and undeniable honesty.
Events will highlight various themes from Conroy's works through programming with notable figures from the Midlands, discussions about Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, a special film screening of The Great Santini, and will culminate with a live author event with Pat Conroy at the Township Auditorium.
To participate, residents can pick up a copy of My Reading Life at any Richland Library location or download a copy. The book can also be purchased from a number of participating Columbia-area bookstores.
One Book, One Columbia connects our community through a shared reading experience by encouraging Richland County residents to read the same book at the same time. Every February, this initiative brings together readers from all over Columbia in an attempt to promote literacy and its importance to our community.
OBOC: Our Reading Lives
Notable figures share the remarkable pieces of writing that shaped their futures. For Adults
6:30 p.m., Thursday, February 6
OBOC: Getting the Boots Off -- PTSD and The Great Santini
The struggles of the Meechams in The Great Santini are familiar to many current and former military families. Counselor Jennifer Miller, whose own experiences in Iraq left her suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, will speak frankly about the difficulties facing those with PTSD and their families. For adults.
6:30 p.m., Thursday, February 13
OBOC: Jasper Nightstand Book Club
The official book club of Jasper magazine will meet to discuss My Reading Life in the Auditorium. All adults are welcome.
6:30 p.m., Tuesday, February 18
Auditorium
OBOC: The Great Santini at the Nick
The Nickelodeon will show the 1979 film adaptation starring Robert Duvall. Regular admission prices will apply.
5:30 p.m., Wednesday, February 19
The Nickelodeon
OBOC: Live with Pat Conroy
Author talk and book signing with the author of The Water is Wide, The Great Santini, The Prince of Tides and this year's One Book One Columbia selection, My Reading Life. For adults.
7 p.m., Thursday, February 27
For more information, please visit the Richland Library website.
