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Griot African-American Book Discussion (In-person or Zoom)

Overground Railroad by Candacy A. Taylor

The Griot Book Discussion features books by African-American authors. Meets in-person or via Zoom on the third Tuesday of the month. December's selection: Overground Railroad by Candacy A. Taylor.

Monthly book discussion featuring works by African-American authors. You now have the option to attend in-person or on Zoom! Please register and choose your attendance option. Zoom links will be emailed out 1 week prior to discussion. Print copies of the book are available for checkout at the Adult Reference Desk on the 2nd floor. Email group facilitator Becky Clark at rclark@aurorapubliclibrary.org for more information.

Book description:

Overground Railroad: The Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America

Published from 1936 to 1966, the Green Book was hailed as the “black travel guide to America.” At that time, it was very dangerous and difficult for African-Americans to travel because black travelers couldn’t eat, sleep, or buy gas at most white-owned businesses. The Green Book listed hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and other businesses that were safe for black travelers. It was a resourceful and innovative solution to a horrific problem. It took courage to be listed in the Green Book, and Overground Railroad celebrates the stories of those who put their names in the book and stood up against segregation. It shows the history of the Green Book, how we arrived at our present historical moment, and how far we still have to go when it comes to race relations in America.  A New York Times Notable Book of 2020.

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