For anyone who’s read his work or seen his interviews (most recently in the stellar documentary, “I Am Not Your Negro”), you know what an important and inspiring writer (and human being) James Baldwin was and is. So now we get to read his book, “If Beale Street Could Talk.” It’s about a young African-American couple, their love for each other, their families, and an injustice that tears them apart and tests their commitment. The book was recently adapted into the stellar (and criminally under-nominated for the Oscars) movie of the same name – go see it if you’re able. We meet in the back room (behind the children’s section) of the Midtown Scholar.

Please RSVP and/or send questions to Joe Foner at joefoner1@gmail.com.  See you there, and happy reading!

Programming Note: In addition, we’re starting another challenge read. The challenge read is a separate book adventure, whereby we pick a (much) longer book than usual and read it over 6 months, periodically checking in at regular meetings. In the end, we’ll have a separate stand-alone meeting to discuss that book. The book is Haruki Marukami’s “1Q84.” The challenge read runs from January to June, and we’ll meet on July 14. There will be a separate posting for the challenge read, but feel free to e-mail Joe at joefoner1@gmail.com or check the HYP web site for further details.