\t\t\t\t\tOverview: Bringing the community closer through reading<\/p>\n
Now in its 19th year, One Book, One San Diego, encourages everyone to read and discuss the same book, bringing \u201cour community closer together through the shared experience of reading.\u201d<\/p>\n
One Book, One San Diego<\/a> is back!<\/p>\n Our region\u2019s annual community reading program promotes the power of literature to inspire, unite and spark meaningful conversations.<\/p>\n Now in its 19th year, One Book, One San Diego, encourages everyone to read and discuss the same book, bringing \u201cour community closer together through the shared experience of reading.\u201d<\/p>\n Presented by KPBS<\/a> in partnership with over 80 public libraries, service organizations and educational institutions, join us as we read and explore this year\u2019s selections.<\/p>\n Check out Deacon King Kong by James McBride<\/a>, the 2025 adult read.<\/p>\n Set in 1969 Brooklyn, an aging church deacon, \u2018Sportcoat\u2019, shoots a drug dealer in broad daylight. What unfolds is a deeply human, often surprisingly hilarious portrait of a community navigating change.<\/p>\n McBride masterfully weaves together multiple storylines and serious themes like addiction, gentrification and racial tension, while keeping Deacon King Kong full of life and humor. It\u2019s a moving celebration of the power of community and the unexpected ways people are connected.<\/p>\n Join us at the La Mesa Library<\/a> on Nov. 19, at 1 p.m. to discuss this vibrant title.<\/p>\n For teens this year, Family Style by Thien Pham<\/a> is a food-centric graphic memoir that follows Pham\u2019s journey from Vietnam to the United States as a young refugee.<\/p>\n Each chapter is anchored around a specific dish, using food as a symbol of memory, identity and adaptation. With expressive, minimalist artwork and heartfelt narration, Pham explores themes of displacement, family and belonging without losing his sense of humor or hope.<\/p>\n It\u2019s an accessible and emotional title that will resonate with readers of all ages.<\/p>\n Teens can discuss Family Style on Nov. 18, at 4 p.m. at the La Mesa Library.<\/p>\n The Interpreter by Olivia Abtahi<\/a> delivers a big message in a picture-book package.<\/p>\n Zahra\u2019s a young girl who interprets for her immigrant mother during everyday encounters from the doctor\u2019s office to the grocery store.<\/p>\n As Zahra juggles the roles of translator, child and student, she demonstrates the strength, complexity and resilience of immigrant families. Monica Arnaldo\u2019s<\/a> warm illustrations capture both the joy and challenges of Zahra\u2019s world.<\/p>\n The Interpreter is a powerful tribute to kids growing up between languages and cultures.<\/p>\n