Join us for a special edition of Tween Book Club featuring an author talk and discussion with Ruchira Gupta on Monday, March 2 at 5:00 pm in the Crawford Room. This Tween & Teen Book Club Special is open to students in grades 4-12 and brings tweens and teens together for an in-person discussion of "The Freedom Seeker" with the author herself.

"The Freedom Seeker" follows twelve-year-old Simi Singh, whose life in Northern India is filled with family traditions, school pressures, and hockey competitions until her family becomes the target of violent vigilantes because of her Sikh father and Muslim mother’s interfaith marriage. When threats escalate, Simi’s family is forced to make an impossible choice between staying in their homeland or fleeing for safety. As Simi and her mother attempt a dangerous journey toward the United States, the story explores displacement, immigration, courage, and the enduring strength of familial love.

Sharing a book discussion with the author offers a unique opportunity beyond our usual librarian-led book club conversations. Ruchira Gupta is a renowned activist and award-winning documentarian, and her perspective brings deeper insight into the real-world issues that shape Simi’s story. Participants will hear directly from the author about her inspiration, research, and the themes of resilience and hope woven throughout the novel, followed by a live Q&A.

Free copies of the book are available to pick up at the Library in advance to keep, while supplies last. This program takes place in person at the Library, with the author appearing virtually via Zoom. Call 577.7323 for more information