This book was radical! Probably our most divisive book read by the club yet, this work of speculative fiction definitely got the conversation rolling. The series of 12 fictional interviews with people from all walks of life explored what life might be like if the whole world banded together and communized society. Certainly some interesting perspectives are presented, whether it sounds like a lifestyle you would enjoy or not. If this description sparks curiosity for you, consider checking out this book!
Next month, we will dive back into nonfiction to discuss “The Archipelago of Hope” by Gleb Raygorodetsky. Copies are available now online only through Hoopla (click here for a patron’s guide to signing up for this free service) – click the button below to learn more and register.
And now: the resources! Happy browsing!
Book Club Companion
As is now my habit, I’ve created this slideshow to help give me and other readers visual context for certain locations, terms, etc. that are mentioned throughout the book. Basically, anything that made me think “What’s that?” is included here. If you’d like to browse through, this resource should give you a good idea of what the book is like, some themes discussed, and so on. I hope you enjoy!
Common Notions Press
Mentioned in the forward as the printer for the book, turns out it’s a real place! They are based in Brooklyn, NY, run collectively, and are committed to “the power of the printed word to inspire cultural shifts through the bold ideas of a new society emerging within the existing world.”
EarthOps
Hidden throughout the book are references to modern-day environmentalist organizations, and EarthOps appears to be one such organization. EarthOps is a “network for leaders to share best practices, find resources, and manage their environmental initiatives all in one convenient, secure platform.” The site contains environmental news + resources for companies to find ways to be more eco-friendly.
Relevant Articles
Ballroom History: Know Your Stuff
An early interview in the book discusses aspects of queer and ballroom culture in NYC, mentioning such concepts as belonging to a House, Walking in a specific Category at a Ball, and so on. Here is a brief overview of ballroom culture from an organization called Van Vogue Jam. A great introduction to a rich part of LGBT culture.
3 Ways that Dance Offers Opportunities for Connection
Mentioned heavily throughout the book is the notion that dance connects us all, across cultures and countries, and is an incredibly meaningful part of the human experience. Here is an article elaborating and expanding on that notion – take a look!
Archive of Native American Recorded History
In the book (and indeed, in real life), Indigenous cultures around the world actively work to live in harmony with and nurture and regenerate the land they hold sacred and upon which they live. Here is a treasure trove of Native stories from many different tribes around North America. Listen to interviews, stories, songs, and much more on this incredible digital archive.
Arapaho Tribe of the Wind River Reservation/Northern Arapaho
Specifically mentioned in an interview in the book, the Arapaho Tribe of the Wind River Reservation has its own section in the Archive, so I will include a special shout-out here.
Recommended Reading
Radical Walking Tours of New York City
Mentioned specifically in the book, this is a collection of “thirteen walking tours, taking us from Battery Park to Harlem, from the Lower East Side to Central Park, offer[ing] a vital new perspective on the history of New York City and its place in the traditions of American radicalism.” Available now through Hoopla
We Are the Middle of Forever: Indigenous Voices from Turtle Island on the Changing Earth
“A powerful, intimate collection of conversations with Indigenous Americans on the climate crisis and the Earth’s future”. Drawing from Indigenous communities across the continent, this book is “a welcome antidote to the despair arising from the climate crisis, We Are the Middle of Forever brings to the forefront the perspectives of those who have long been attuned to climate change and will be an indispensable aid to those looking for new and different ideas and responses to the challenges we face.”
Thank you for reading!
I hope we’ll see you next time — Wednesday, October 8, 7-8:30 p.m. — to discuss “The Archipelago of Hope” by Gleb Raygordetsky
