Malden Reads is an organization that strives to find the answer to the question “What if all of Malden read the same book?” (Malden Reads). The organization promotes reading throughout the city of Malden.
Every year Malden Reads pick is chosen, a book that Malden Reads awards with the title, along with several companion books relating to the Malden Reads pick, for younger readers. This year the book chosen is The Martian by Andy Weir, along with many companion books relating to Mars and space.
Malden Reads does not only promote reading and chooses a book, that they believe Malden should read. The organization hosts many events ranging from Boda Borg trips to community dinners at local restaurants to book discussions for both adults and teenagers.
Malden Reads’ Boda Borg event ties into this year’s theme, and Malden Reads’ Pick, The Martian, because “you need to use your wits, physical strength, resources and teamwork to overcome challenges.” (Anne D’Urso-Rose, Malden Reads Co-Facilitator)
On April 30, “Sunset, Storytelling, and Stargazing on Waitt’s Mount” will take place, on Waitt’s Mount, the highest point in Malden. A professional storyteller will recite a story at sunset, at the newly renovated park. Kids of all ages can look at the night sky with the help of Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston, again, tying in with the year’s theme, The Martian. An Astrophysicist from MIT, Shep Doeleman, will be assisting Malden Reads with the event.
Malden Reads’ events are attended by many people, regardless of background or age, and working together with non-profit organizations is a major part of making these events possible.
Malden Reads’ co-facilitator Jodie Zalk stated that volunteers for these events are always wanted, and as of now, is looking for a volunteer to help run Malden Reads’ Facebook account and social media accounts.
Upcoming Events Hosted by Malden Reads
- Malden Reads Night at Boda Borg: Tuesday, March 29, 4:00-8:00pm
- The Art of Surviving Hard Times: Yvonne Twining Humber and the Federal Art Project: Tuesday, April 12, 7:00pm
- Sunset, Storytelling, and Stargazing on Waitt’s Mount: Saturday, April 30, 7:00pm
- The Finest Hours: Resiliency and Leadership Lessons from America’s Greatest Rescue: Wednesday, May 25, 7:00pm
Community Dinners
- Joti Palace: Tuesday, March 8, 7:00pm
- El Potro: Tuesday, March 22, 7:00pm
- Sousaku: Tuesday, April 19, 7:00pm
Film Screenings
- Everest: Tuesday, March 15, 6:00pm (Malden Public Library)
- The Martian: Friday, April 8, 7:00pm (Jenkins Auditorium, MHS)
- My Life in China: Thursday, April 14, 7:00pm (Jenkins Auditorium, MHS)
- In The Shadow of the Moon: Tuesday, April 26, 6:00pm (Malden Public Library)
- Home: Date TBA (Ferryway School)