One Book Many Voices

Over the past two years, Floyd County’s One Book/Many Voices reading initiative has brought renowned authors like Sherman Alexie and Maya Angelou to our community. This year, the program will focus on Paul Rusesabagina and his novel, “An Ordinary Man,” which tells the story of a country torn apart by violence during the Rwandan genocide of 1994.

Rusesabagina has been internationally honored for saving 1,268 civilians during the Rwandan genocide. During the genocide, he used his influence and connections as temporary manager of the Sabena Hôtel des Mille Collines in Kigali, Rwanda, to shelter 1,268 Tutsis and moderate Hutus from being slaughtered by the Interahamwe militia. His story was the basis of the Academy Award-nominated film Hotel Rwanda (2004). He currently lives in Belgium with his wife, children and two adopted nieces.

Rusesabagina will speak at Berry College’s Cage Center at 7 p.m. on Sept. 29, after which he will be signing copies of his book. Area students are encouraged to enter a writing contest sponsored by the Rome News-Tribune that is based on their experience reading “An Ordinary Man.” Members of the community are also invited to attend the Many Voices Concert hosted by Darlington School on Sept. 27 at 4 p.m. Donations are appreciated, and all proceeds will benefit Anna K. Davie Elementary School. Please click here for more information on these and other One Book/Many Voices events.

Modeled after similar initiatives throughout the nation, One Book/Many Voices is designed to encourage reading, spark discussion and bring the community together through the reading of one great book. Organizers encourage local book clubs, schools, civic organizations and churches to host opportunities for discussion. Participating organizations and sponsors include 100 Black Men of Rome, Berry College, Chieftains Museum, Darlington School, Georgia Highlands College, the Greater Rome Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, MELD for Dads, Pepperell High School, the Rome-Floyd County Commission on Children and Youth, Rome-Floyd Communities in Schools, Rome-Floyd County Library, Rome High School, the Rome-News Tribune, and Shorter College.