ReadDavidson
ReadDavidson is a town-wide initiative organized by a group of avid readers, Main Street Books, and the Davidson Public Library. Since 2007, books have been chosen annually, and book-related events have been planned to make each book come to life. Each year, Davidson residents are invited to participate in programs and events.
2021
For the first time ever, the ReadDavidson Committee is excited to announce that it has chosen FOUR books so that readers of all ages can get involved! Virtual events will highlight each of these four selections with the aim of stimulating common conversation between friends, families, and community members.
ADULT/NON-FICTION:
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson
YA/ADULT/FICTION:
Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
MIDDLE GRADES:
Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams
CHILDREN'S BOOK:
The Power of One: Every Act of Kindness Counts by Trudy Ludwig
Read (and support your local bookstore at the same time)
Committee member Main Street Books is offering a 10% discount on each ReadDavidson 2021 title. Readers can also purchase a bundle of all four books for a more deeply discounted rate of $65.00.
Donate
Main Street Books is joining up with the Davidson Parks & Recreation Department to provide donated book bundles to local families with demonstrated need. If you can help, select "Donate Book Bundle" on the Main Street Books page here. Thanks for your support in helping as any residents as possible participate in ReadDavidson 2021.
Apply for a Book Grant
So that everyone in the community might participate in this program, the Davidson Parks & Recreation Department, Main Street Books, and local supporters have teamed up to create the Book Grant Program. Need a book? Apply here.
Attend events
On March 2, 16, and April 1 at 7:00 p.m., there will be virtual panel discussions of sequential portions of Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson. On April 17, 22, and 24, Main Street Books will virtually host author talks for the remaining three books selected this year: Genesis Begins Again by Alician D. Williams, Legendborn by Tracy Deonn, and The Power of One by Tracy Ludwig. Registration for all of these events can be found below, as well as video links for events which have already occurred.
Readers can read Caste: The Origins of our Discontents in advance as “Davidson Discusses” sequential portions of the book on these dates, creating one continuous conversation. Those interested are encouraged to participate in all three sessions! Using the links below, register for individual sessions:
- March 2: Parts I-III; Watch the video HERE.
- March 16: Parts IV-V Watch the video HERE.
- April 1: Parts Vi-VII Watch the video HERE.
Isabel Wilkerson, author Caste: The Orgins of Our Discontents will be in conversation (virtually) at The Temple Emanu-El Streiker Center in New York City on May 3. The webinar is free, but registration is required: https://streicker.nyc/events/isabel-wilkerson
- April 17 at 4:00 p.m.: Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams(Middle Grades Fiction) with Robin McLennon
- Register here.
- April 22 at 7:00 p.m.: Legendborn by Tracy Deonn (Young Adult Fiction) with Dr. Hilary Green
- Register here.
- April 24 at 11:00 a.m.: The Power of One by Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Mike Curato
- Register here.
Sponsors
The ReadDavidson initiative would not be possible without the support of the following sponsors:
- Main Street Books
- Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
- Davidson Public Library
Prior ReadDavidson selections
2021: Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent by Isabel Wilkerson; Legendborn by Tracy Deonn; Genesis Begins Again by Alicia Williams; The Power of One by Trudy Ludwig
2019: Varina by Charles Frazier
2018: News of the World by Paulette Jiles
2017: Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
2016: Wherever There is Light by Peter Golden
2015: Guests on Earth by Lee Smith
2014: One Second After by William Forstchen
2013: A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash
2012: State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
2011: The Help by Kathryn Stockett
2010: A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson
2009: The Color of Water by James McBride
2008: One Foot in Eden by Ron Rash
2007: The Bridge by Doug Marlette