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PARIS — The Paris Public Library’s Novel Idea Book Club, based on the Maine Humanities Not For Children Only Book Discussion, will meet at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 21 (the third Tuesday of the month) to discuss “The Silver Donkey” by author Sonya Hartnett.
Black-and-white prints by illustrator Don Powers complement the book, which is described on Goodreads: “One morning in the woods of World War I France, two young sisters stumble upon an astonishing find — a soldier, temporarily blinded by war, who has walked away from battle longing to see his gravely ill younger brother.
Soon the care of the soldier becomes the girls’ preoccupation, but it’s not just the secret they share that emboldens them to steal food and other comforting items for the man. They are fascinated by what he holds in his hand — a tiny silver donkey. “As the girls and their brother devise a plan for the soldier’s safe passage home, he repays them by telling four wondrous tales about the humble donkey — from the legend of Bethlehem to a myth of India, from a story of rescue in war to a tale of family close to the soldier’s heart.
Sonya Hartnett explores rich new territory in this inspiring tale of kindness, loyalty and courage.” To secure a book call the Paris Public Library at 743-6994. The library will obtain a copy on loan. Call as soon as soon as possible so time will be ample for ordering, receiving and reading.
A refreshment related to the book will be available. For those who are unable to attend but still wish to participate, there is the option of being a silent participant. A silent participant reads the monthly selection and emails their thoughts about the book to children’sroom@paris.lib.me.us prior to the discussion date.
Readers and responders can include what they thought of the selection. Ideas to include might be what they learned, what they were enticed to do further research on, what was believable and what was not, whom they might recommend the book to and why, could they make a personal connection with one of the book’s characters, setting or a specific event, etc.
Responses from each silent participant will be shared during the discussion at the Novel Idea Book Club.
