KALAMAZOO -- Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) Kalamazoo, in partnership with Kalamazoo Public Library and Kalamazoo Youth Development Network, announces the Great Stories Book Club event series for youth aged 12 to 21. This free event series begins Sept. 6 with programs scheduled through November.

The Great Stories Book Series features three books, and each book has a three-part event series that invites youth to explore identity, social justice and community. Youth who participate will discuss the books, build relationships, share stories and develop a vision for their community.

TRHT Program Officer Sholanna Lewis said the Great Stories Book Series events are part of the racial healing and transformation process.

"In Kalamazoo, we hope to bring youth together to engage in these amazing books and create the opportunity for youth voice to be incorporated into new strategies to transform our community," Lewis said.

Great Stories Book Club schedule is as follows:
March - A graphic novel auto-biography by Congressman John Lewis.
Sept. 6, 13, and 20
4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Kalamazoo First Congregational Church


The Hate U Give
- A young adult novel that follows a protagonist drawn to activism after she witnesses the police shooting of her friend.
Oct. 6, 13, and 20
4 to 6 p.m.
Fire Historical & Cultural Arts Collaborative







Ms. Marvel
- An ordinary girl from Jersey City who is suddenly empowered with extraordinary gifts.
Oct. 29, Nov. 5, and 12
6 to 8 p.m.
Kalamazoo Public Library Powell Branch


Free copies of the books are available at Kalamazoo Public Library's Powell Branch and the central library downtown in Kalamazoo. Participants can sign up via Events on surveymonkey.com/r/yhctrhtkzoo.

For the latest updates, see our events listed on facebook.com/TRHTKalamazoo or call (269) 553-7911.