Did you know that between the 18th and mid-20th centuries, countless African Americans passed as white? Join us to discuss two books that address "passing." In the non-fiction book A Chosen Exile by Allyson Hobbs, readers will learn about the separation from one racial identity and the leap into another. This revelatory history explores the possibilities and challenges that racial indeterminacy presented to those living in a country obsessed with racial distinctions. Passing by Nella Larsen is a fiction story about two childhood friends who meet later in life and discover their different paths. One "passed" as white and married a white racist while the other married a black doctor and committed herself to racial uplift. The Book Chat Readers encourage people to read one or both of the books but all are welcome, whether or not you've read the books.  Please note: Library copies of A Chosen Exile are limited but it is available for purchase as an e-book.

 

Want to read ahead? December's book is Family Tree by Barbara Delinsky (subject to change).

Fed up with corruption, dynastic policies and ineffective public services, Indian voters catapulted Narenda Modi and his Party to power in the country's 2014 elections. For voters, Modi embodied real change and an India that wasn't stumbling, but running, to greatness. But for the U.S., change in India brings its own set of unknowns, heralding an age ruled by a prime minister new to national office and other policymakers who have been out of the public eye for a decade. Great Decisions guest speaker Mary McCormick is the sole practitioner and principal of McCormick International, focusing on international business law. She has more than 30 years of international legal experience with a particular interest in Asian countries and cultures. Bud and Carol Hayden host at Winslow House.