Watch CBS News

One Book One Philadelphia

By Dr. Marciene Mattleman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Open the website of the Free Library of Philadelphia and find a ten-year list of wonderful One Book One Philadelphia selections and you'll bet that the program will survive the next ten years.

Having read each book, I have favorites, and this year's selection, The Buddha in the Attic is among them - winner of the prestigious PEN/Faulkner award for literature and a piece of history as well - depicting the sad plight of Japanese picture brides coming here to meet husbands, toiling in the fields and the internment of Japanese citizens during World War II.

The book inspired a musical composition by a Curtis Institute student, a martial arts class and a meditation class, many interactive discussion groups and a moving spoken word presentation about a family member who was interned.

At Free Library Parkway Central March 13th, 7:30pm, meet Julie Otsuka, who has written a compelling account of which Americans won't be proud, but should learn.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.