Join us for the first in our three-part community reading of Julie Otsuka’s acclaimed novel "When the Emperor Was Divine," presented as part of The Big Read with Platte Valley Theatre Arts.
In this opening session, we’ll explore the first third of the book, which introduces a Japanese American family on the brink of forced relocation during World War II. Together, we’ll discuss Otsuka’s spare, powerful prose and the ways the novel illuminates themes of identity, displacement, and resilience. We’ll also connect the story to Brighton’s own history, examining Brighton’s ties to Japanese incarceration. This 90-minute session will blend group reading, open discussion, and community reflection. All are welcome—whether you’ve read the entire novel or are just beginning. Light refreshments will be provided.
Appropriate for ages 18 and older. No advanced registration required. For a free copy of the novel, email info@plattevalleytheatrearts.org no later than November 3. Additional copies will be available at the program.
Acompáñanos a nuestra primera sesión de lectura en comunidad, de una serie de tres sesiones, leyendo la aclamada novela "Cuando el emperador era divino" (When the Emperor Was Divine) de Julie Otsuka, presentada como parte del programa The Big Read con Platte Valley Theatre Arts y Anythink Brighton.
En esta sesión inicial, vamos a explorar el primer tercio del libro en el que se presenta a una familia japonesa americana a punto de tener un traslado forzoso en la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Juntos discutiremos sobre la prosa simple y poderosa de Otsuka, y de la manera como la novela esclarece los temas de identidad, desplazamiento y resiliencia. También conectaremos la historia del libro con la de Brighton, revisando los lazos con el encarcelamiento japonés. Esta sesión de 90 minutos integrará lectura en grupo, discusión abierta y una reflexión en comunidad. Todos son bienvenidos, ya sea que lees toda la novela o solo el comienzo. Se ofrecerá bebidas ligeras.
Este programa se presentará en inglés. Apropiado para edades de 18 años y mayores. No es necesario inscribirse de forma anticipada. Para obtener una copia gratuita de la novela, escribe por correo electrónico a info@plattevalleytheatrearts.org a más tardar el 3 de noviembre. Habrá copias adicionales en el programa.
AGE GROUP: | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | History | Community Event | Book Club | Arts & Culture |
Mon, Oct 13 | Closed |
Tue, Oct 14 | 9:00AM to 7:00PM |
Wed, Oct 15 | 9:00AM to 7:00PM |
Thu, Oct 16 | 9:00AM to 7:00PM |
Fri, Oct 17 | 9:00AM to 5:00PM |
Sat, Oct 18 | 9:00AM to 5:00PM |
Sun, Oct 19 | Closed |
In the heart of downtown Brighton, Anythink Brighton blends bold design with a deep commitment to sustainability as the nation’s first carbon-negative library. Opened in 2009, this LEED Gold-certified library branch marked a new chapter in the Anythink story as the first Anythink library. More recently, it found its way into the streets of Anythink World, where Brighton’s spirit continues to inspire new adventures.