It’s that time of year! The 6th annual Castro Valley Reads kicks off on Sunday, February 5 at 2 pm with a two-hour drop-in event.
Castro Valley Reads is an annual literary event that asks our residents to read and discuss the same book. It builds community by encouraging a thoughtful exchange of ideas and celebrates the joy of reading together. Castro Valley Reads is generously funded by the Friends of the Castro Valley Library.
This year we will be highlighting Chinese history and culture with a beautiful and poignant work of historical fiction entitled Peach Blossom Spring, a debut novel from author Melissa Fu.
The year is 1938 in China, and, with the Japanese army approaching, Meilin and her son, Renshu, are forced to flee their home. Relying on their courage, wits, and an illustrated hand scroll that offers solace and wisdom, they must travel through a ravaged country, seeking refuge.
Years later, Renshu has settled in the U.S. as Henry Dao. Though his daughter, Lily, is desperate to understand her heritage, he refuses to talk about his childhood, and the weight of his history threatens to drag his family down.
Spanning continents and generations, Peach Blossom Spring is about the power of our past, the hope for a better future, and the search for a place to call home.
“We hope you will join us to read and discuss this year’s selection,” said Dawn Balestreri, Manager of the Castro Valley Library. “I found myself lost in this story, both a page turner and tear-jerker. It may remind you of the stories in your own life and the importance of sharing the messy tapestry we call family.”
Discussion group registration begins today. You can register for a Library-facilitated group or you can form your own group with three or more people. Book distribution begins February 5. To learn more about discussion groups and to register, visit aclibrary.org/castro-valley-reads.
Our drop-in Kick-Off Event is Sunday, February 5 from 2 pm to 4 pm. You’ll learn more about the book and be able to pick up a free copy, while supplies last. You can make a wish for the Lunar New Year on our wishing tree and enjoy a concert of traditional and contemporary Chinese music. The music and video presentations will repeat throughout the 2-hour event. Please register so we know you are coming and drop in when you like! To register, visit aclibrary.org/castro-valley-reads.
From February through the end of April, in addition to discussion groups, we have a great line up of programs for all ages related to the themes of the book. Please join us!
The Castro Valley Library, a branch of the Alameda County Library system. The Library will provide an ASL interpreter for any event with at least seven working days’ notice. Please call 510-667-7900 or TTY 888-663-0660.