One Book, One Community returns to Troy

Troy Public Schools is once again inviting the community to join in the shared reading and discussion experience of One Book, One Community, and will even have a visit this year from one of the book’s authors.

The book for this year is “I Will Always Write Back,” a memoir of two penpals who become best friends even while separated by continents. Starting out as a seventh grade writing assignment, Caitlin chooses the most exotic country name on the board, Zimbabwe, and it changes not only her life but the life of Martin, the recipient of her letter, according to information from Troy Public Schools Librarian Kay Randall. Tying in with the Troy School District’s theme of kindness, “I Will Always Write Back” exemplifies how small actions have big consequences.

The goal of One Book, One Community is to bring together a community, in all of its diversity, over the reading and discussion of a shared piece of literature. The local goal is to encourage a shared, multigenerational experience for the students and community of the Troy School District, according to Randall. Participants can pick up the book anytime, and have until Monday, March 11 to read it.

The week of March 11, there will be activities and discussions scheduled for readers to interact with others about the book, including a visit from Caitlin Alifirenka, one of the authors.

Copies of the book are available free to Troy residents, and participants need not have children in school. Libby residents are welcome to participate but will be charged $5 for their copy. Books may be picked up at W.F. Morrison Elementary, Troy Middle-High School or at the Troy Public Library.