This Spring we are reading author Mia Alvar’s highly acclaimed In the County: Stories. Three times this semester, we’ll enjoy discussions as an informal hybrid group via Zoom or in-person (your choice) at Skyline College Library. No homework beyond reading is required. Here is what you need to know:
Who can join? This Book Club is facilitated by librarian Jessica Silver-Sharp and is open to students, staff and faculty in SMCCCD. Undocumented students are especially welcome. The Book Club is a safe space for discussions about sometimes difficult topics. The theme of Alvar’s stories is the Filipinx diaspora. From our first meeting, we have learned that these stories are “morally messy” — there’s a lot for us to deconstruct!
When: Our second meeting takes place Tuesday, April 12 from 2:00-3:00pm. Since we are reading short stories, anyone who did not attend the first meeting is welcome to join the conversation. Just sign up here so we will know you are coming: bit.ly/MiaAlvar
Where: This is a hybrid club! You can join in person at the Library (Skyline College, Building 5, 2nd floor) or by zoom at this link: https://smccd.zoom.us/j/83121121288?pwd=SGRPYzBGSU03bFJxSGNFL2oxQkxkUT09
Can students get credit for participating? This is a non-academic book club. However, you may speak to your professor to learn whether they might offer extra credit.
Do I need to read the entire book? As this is a book of short stories, we will discuss only selected stories at each meeting. Attendance at every meeting is not required. You can also listen to the audiobook if you choose.
You can find the April 12 reading guidelines and additional details here: https://guides.skylinecollege.edu/dreamersstudentresources/bookclub
Questions? Do you need a copy of the In the Country: Stories? Please contact Jessica Silver-Sharp, silversharpj@smccd.edu.
Article by Jessica Silver-Sharp
