On the Same Page

What is the power of one book? Can it do more than enlighten and entertain individual readers? Can it impact the heart and soul of a community, help us to open new lines of communication and lay the groundwork for a stronger and better Forsyth County? We believe that On the Same Page, the Library’s community book reading program, has the potential to do just that. On the Same Page seeks to broaden appreciation of literature through the shared experience of reading and discussing a single work of literature. It offers us a unique opportunity to see things through a different perspective, one that will only expand our understanding of the world around us.

The Forsyth County Public Library also sponsors an annual celebration of poetry that complements On the Same Page, called On the Same Poem, in which participants read and discuss a single poem.

Now in its 13th year, On the Same Page continues!
2014 Book Selection
Serena by Ron Rash
September 28 to October 12, 2014

Serena

The year is 1929, and newlyweds George and Serena Pemperton travel from Boston to the mountains of Western North Carolina where they plan to create a timber empire. Although George has already lived in the camp long enough to father an illegitimate child, Serena is new to the mountains. However, she soon shows herself to be the equal of any man, overseeing crews, hunting rattlesnakes, even saving her husband's life in the wilderness.

Together Serena and George ruthlessly kill or vanquish all who fall out of their favor. They decimate the natural environment, leveling the forest to appease their unchecked greed. Yet when Serena sets out to murder the son George fathered without her, the Pemberton's intense, passionate marriage begins to unravel, and the story moves toward its shocking reckoning.

We invite you to check out a copy and join in the conversation with your friends and neighbors.

See this year's Resource Guide for a full schedule of events. 2014 Book Discussions for Serena

  • 2013 Book Selection

    The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner

  • 2012 Book Selection

    The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson

  • 2011 Book Selection

    The Road to Devotion by Cameron Kent

  • 2010 Book Selection

    The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett

  • 2009 Book Selection

    Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neal Hurston

  • 2008 Book Selection

    Farenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

  • 2007 Book Selection

    Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

  • 2006 Book Selection

    The Land Breakers by John Ehle

  • 2005 Book Selection

    In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez

  • 2004 Book Selection

    I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

  • 2003 Book Selection

    Walking Across Egypt by Clyde Edgerton

  • 2002 Book Selection

    To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee