African American Authors Book Discussion: "The Overground Railroad" by Candacy A. Taylor

In-Person

Explore powerful stories by authors of African, Caribbean, and African American heritage. May's book is "The Overground Railroad: The Green Book" by Candacy A. Taylor.

Join the African American Authors group to read and learn about books by authors of African, Caribbean, and African American descent. This group meets on the 4th Sunday of the month at Germantown Library. This month the group is discussing "The Overground Railroad: The Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America" by Candacy A. Taylor. This event will take place in the Group Meeting Room 5 on the lower level.

"This historical exploration of the Green Book offers "a fascinating [and] sweeping story of black travel within Jim Crow America across four decades" (The New York Times Book Review). Published from 1936 to 1966, the Green Book was hailed as the "black travel guide to America." At that time, it was very dangerous and difficult for African-Americans to travel because they couldn't eat, sleep, or buy gas at most white-owned businesses. The Green Book listed hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and other businesses that were safe for black travelers. It was a resourceful and innovative solution to a horrific problem. It took courage to be listed in the Green Book, and Overground Railroad celebrates the stories of those who put their names in the book and stood up against segregation. Author Candacy A. Taylor shows the history of the Green Book, how we arrived at our present historical moment, and how far we still have to go when it comes to race relations in America. A New York Times Notable Book of 2020."  From the publisher.

This book is available in print for adults and as a young reader's edition, and on multiple formats as a digital eBook and eAudiobook.

Limited print copies of this book are available for pick up on the lower level service desk after April 10th. 

Questions about this program? Contact the Germantown 240-777-0110

Looking for more fun things to do at MCPL? 

Take a look at these resources for Books & Authors and NoveList Plus. Don't have a card right now?  No worries!  Find out how to Get a Library Card.

Accommodation Requests

To request an accommodation, contact the library branch where you want the accommodation. If they are unable to help, or if you need an accommodation for an online resource or event, complete our Accommodation Request Form online or call Library Administration at 240-777-0002.

Upcoming Events