Common Readers will be reading “The First Ladies” by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray in September. 

“The daughter of formerly enslaved parents, Mary McLeod Bethune refuses to back down as white supremacists attempt to thwart her work. She marches on as an activist and an educator, and as her reputation grows she becomes a celebrity, revered by titans of business and recognized by U.S. Presidents. Eleanor Roosevelt herself is awestruck and eager to make her acquaintance. Initially drawn together because of their shared belief in women’s rights and the power of education, Mary and Eleanor become fast friends confiding their secrets, hopes and dreams—and holding each other’s hands through tragedy and triumph. When Franklin Delano Roosevelt is elected president, the two women begin to collaborate more closely, particularly as Eleanor moves toward her own agenda separate from FDR, a consequence of the devastating discovery of her husband’s secret love affair. Eleanor becomes a controversial First Lady for her outspokenness, particularly on civil rights. And when she receives threats because of her strong ties to Mary, it only fuels the women’s desire to fight together for justice and equality.” 

The discussion will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 17 in the library’s large meeting room. Copies of the book are available upon request at the library’s front desk. It is also available as an ebook and audiobook on Libby. 

For more information about this or any other Upper Sandusky Community Library program, stop by the front desk or call the library at 419-294-1345.