BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) Voices is a book discussion group intended to encourage an understanding of systemic racism, privilege, and biases to help disrupt racial inequalities and racism. Together the group will foster knowledge, empathy and understanding of the experiences, identities and history of people in the BIPOC community. We will explore these titles through an anti-racism lens to allow for open and honest conversations in a safe, respectful environment.
Not Quite Not White: Losing and Finding Race in America by Sharmila Sen
Wednesday, August 18 at 7 PM
Sohier Room, Main Library
This title is geared towards adults, but all ages are welcome.
In this honest and intimate memoir, Sharmila Sen recounts her experience of growing up in America after moving to Cambridge, Massachusetts from India at the age of 12. Through this lens, we can explore what it means to be white and how the concept of race shapes the American experience.
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang
Wednesday, September 15 at 7 PM
Sohier Room, Main Library
This title is geared towards teens, but all ages are welcome.
American Born Chinese is the tale of three seemingly separate characters, Jin Wang, the only Chinese-American student at his school; the Monkey King, a character from one of China’s oldest fables; and Chin-Kee, a startling and larger-than-life Chinese stereotype come to life, who seems determined to ruin his cousin’s life. Their stories come together in unexpected ways to show the importance of being comfortable in your own skin.
Front Desk by Kelly Yang
Wednesday, October 20 at 7 PM
Sohier Room, Main Library
This title is geared to grades 4-6, but all ages are welcome.
Ten-year-old Mia manages the front desk of the Calivista Motel where she lives and her immigrant parents clean the rooms. Her parents also hide immigrants. And if the mean motel owner, Mr. Yao, finds out they’ve been letting them stay in the empty rooms for free, the Tangs will be doomed. Will she be able to hold on to her job, help the immigrants and guests, escape Mr. Yao, and go for her dreams?
BIPOC Voices is a partnership between Abu Toppin, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Director for the City of Beverly, and the Beverly Public Library.
Children’s Books Celebrating AAPI Voices & Stories
We invite you to explore these wonderful children’s books created by AAPI authors and illustrators.
Past Book Lists
