by Annie Davis

In its first week, the 2015 Milton Reads program has already resulted in tremendous popular response.  This year’s selection is The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown. A best-selling story of teamwork, fortitude, and history, the book is one of the library’s most popular books ever.
“We had ordered plenty of copies,” explains librarian Shirley Pyne, “and we have already brought in additional books and Olympics-themed materials, because there is so much demand. It’s a wonderful true story.”

Americans made quite an impact on the 1936 Berlin Olympics, taking not only the gold in rowing, but succeeding on other playing fields as well. Jesse Owens won four gold medals in track and field. Owens’s roommate Louis Zamperini is chronicled in the popular novel and current film Unbroken.

Upcoming events related to The Boys in the Boat include the Family Olympics 3/21, Book Chat with library director Will Adamczyk 3/24, Trivia! at ester restaurant 3/23, film showing “Miracle” 3/23, film showing “Unbroken” 3/30, and a final event with Olympic rowers 3/31. Check it out at the Milton Public Library for more details.

Caption: The Milton Reads banner, which would normally be placed outside in front of the library, hangs above the circulation desk.