WCLS's fourth annual Read & Share features Bellingham author Clyde W. Ford’s award-winning memoir, Think Black. It is a vivid portrayal of the intersection between technology and race and the tension between a trailblazing father and rebellious son. Borrow the book or eAudiobook from the library. Then register for Oct. 8-Nov. 10 online author events, including book discussions and writing workshops at wcls.org/readandshare.
This year’s Read & Share program, Ford says, lends itself to tough discussions about race and the extent to which technology dominates our lives. Think Black won the 2021 Washington State Book Award for creative nonfiction.
Ford, who has lived in Bellingham for 33 years and has written 14 books of fiction and non-fiction, is looking forward to discussing Think Black with his neighbors. “Talking about hard topics, considering them together, helps us move forward as a society,” he says. "It is like a thread that connects people when you are reading and focusing on something similar.” Listen to an interview with Clyde Ford in our latest podcast episode at wcls.org/podcast.
Read & Share Events – Space is limited. Registration required at wcls.org/readandshare. A link will be emailed to registered guests prior to the event.
Author Events — ONLINE
Adult Writing Workshop with Clyde Ford
Clyde Ford is the author of 14 works of fiction and nonfiction. In this workshop, the author shares tips to inspire your writing practice and to craft stories that will engage people.
Saturday, Oct. 8
1:00 PM-2:00 PM
Think Black Book Talk with Clyde Ford
The Bellingham-based author vividly describes the journey of researching and writing his award-winning memoir. In her review of Think Black, librarian and noted book critic Nancy Pearl said: “Using the experiences of both his father and himself, (Ford) frames the story of race in America over the last 70 years. Audience questions are welcome.
Thursday, October 20
7:00 PM–8:00 PM
Magical Mystery Tour with Clyde Ford
The author shares how he became a writer. This inspiring session is ideal for anyone fascinated by the creative process.
Thursday, October 27
7:00 PM–8:00 PM
Of Blood and Sweat Book Talk
Ford’s latest book, Of Blood and Sweat: Black Lives and the Making of White Power and Wealth, was published to acclaim in April 2022. In her review of the book, WCLS Collection Librarian Mary Kinser writes: “Ford meshes his storytelling talents with his skills as a historian, tracing the ways in which Black labor built the very structures and systems on which our nation rests.”
Saturday, Nov. 5
1:00 PM-2:00 PM
Clyde Ford Creative Writing Program with Teens (Grades 6-12)
Teen writers, join us for a special hour with author Clyde Ford. He will share insights about writing and publishing and will answer your questions about becoming a published author. “I am interested in helping people find their voice in the written word. Finding themselves in finding their voice,” Ford says.
Thursday, Nov. 10
4:00 PM-5:00 PM
Think Black Book Discussions – Open to all. Registration required, wcls.org/readandshare
Discuss the Read & Share book with neighbors and library staff. Author will not attend.
Books and Bites Book Club
Friday, Sept. 16
1:00 PM-2:30 PM
|Blaine Library and Online
Foothills Book Club
Tuesday, Sept. 20
7:00 PM-8:15 PM
Deming Library and Online
About Read & Share
Connection is the heart of Read & Share, which launched in 2019 as part of the library system's 75th anniversary celebrations. A Whatcom County Library Foundation Innovation Grant funded the inaugural program. The trial event was so popular that library staff chose to continue Read & Share as one of the library system's signature programs. Each year, library system staff select a non-fiction book by a local or regional author that will encourage thoughtful conversations. Past Read & Share books are My Old Man and the Mountain by Leif Whittaker (2019), Thirst, 2600 Miles to Home by Heather Anderson (2020), and House Lessons, Renovating a Life by Erica Bauermeister (2021).
About the Whatcom County Library System
Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) connects people with information, ideas and community. WCLS circulates more than 2 million items annually through 10 branches, the bookmobile and a Library Express location on Northwest Drive. Residents have access to WCLS’s rich collection, including books in print and digital formats, music and movies and online digital services. Library system staff plan and host inspiring events for every age. Experience “The Power of Sharing” by visiting in person or online at WCLS.org.
