THOUSAND OAKS READS:
ONE CITY, ONE BOOK

Jamie Ford

Thousand Oaks Reads – One City One Book is a citywide literary event encouraging community members to read and discuss the same book. A four-week celebration of the selected book includes discussion groups and special events inspired by the themes in the book. The goals are to celebrate reading and literature; engage a wide spectrum of the community in thoughtful exchange of ideas and perspectives; provide a multi-faceted array of programs related to literature and the arts; foster a sense of community. A driving notion of the program is: When we open a book together, we close it in greater harmony.

One City One Book is sponsored by the Thousand Oaks Library and Friends of the Thousand Oaks Library and receives generous support from local businesses and organizations.

The One City One Book Committee and Book Selection

The One City One Book Committee is comprised of Thousand Oaks Library staff and supporters. The committee searches for a book that meets the following criteria:

• High Literary Quality - Reviews, analysis, commentary, and commendations from the publishing industry, librarians, journalists and educators
• Universal themes that appeal to a wide range of readers, both adults and high-schoolers
  
• Available in multiple formats, including paperback and audio
• A "discussable" book likely to spark provocative discussions
• Lends itself to creative public programming related to the book
• Author availability and willingness to participate in an author event

Previous years

• 2010- Sweeping Up Glass by Carolyn Wall. Search the catalog.


• 2009- The Soloist by Steve Lopez. Search the catalog.


• 2008- What Is the What by Dave Eggers. Search the catalog.


• 2007- Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer. Search the catalog.

To find all the One City One Book titles, including this year's selection, please search the library's catalog by keyword, either "OCOB" or "One City One Book", or by subject: "OCOB."

eBook versions are also available on OverDrive and most have downloadable audio available either in MyLibrary or OverDrive.