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Griot African-American Book Discussion

The Personal Librarian by M. Benedict & V. C. Murray

The Griot Book Discussion features books by African-American authors. Meets in-person or via Zoom on the third Tuesday of the month. July's book: The Personal Librarian by M. Benedict & V. C. Murray.

A monthly book discussion featuring works by African-American authors. Join us in-person or virtually through Zoom, as seating is limited. Please register and choose your attendance option. Print copies of the book are available for checkout at the Eola Road Branch Adult Reference Desk on the 2nd floor. Email group facilitator Becky Clark at rclark@aurorapubliclibrary.org for more information.

Book description:

In her twenties, Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection of rare manuscripts, books, and artwork for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. Belle becomes a fixture in New York City society and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world, known for her impeccable taste and shrewd negotiating for critical works as she helps create a world-class collection. But Belle has a secret, one she must protect at all costs. She was born not Belle da Costa Greene but Belle Marion Greener. She is the daughter of Richard Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard and a well-known advocate for equality. Belle’s complexion isn’t dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as white—her complexion is dark because she is African American. The Personal Librarian tells the story of an extraordinary woman, famous for her intellect, style, and wit, and shares the lengths she must go to—for the protection of her family and her legacy—to preserve her carefully crafted white identity in the racist world in which she lives.

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