FRAMINGHAM, MA — Framingham Public Library is inviting the entire community to participate in the first annual Framingham Reads Together program. In similar programs across the country, this type of One Book, One Community initiative promotes reading and helps build community. The selected book is Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace…One School at a Time by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin.

Start Reading Now for February Events

Three Cups of Tea describes Mortenson’s near-fatal attempt to scale the treacherous K2, one of the world’s deadliest mountain peaks, and his rescue by Pakistani villagers. A grateful Mortenson accepts the villagers’ challenge to return with the resources to build a school for girls. His ten-year struggle to live up to his promise makes for a spellbinding story. He battles poverty and ignorance and survives kidnapping, fatwas, and family separations. He’s built 55 schools serving Pakistan and Afghanistan’s poorest communities.

The book is a combination adventure story, travelogue, and case study of how one person can positively change lives.

In February 2009, the library, local schools, and other organizations will offer special programs connected with the book selection, including a presentation by the author, Greg Mortenson, on Saturday, February 7, at Nevins Hall.

The special events planned for this program will appeal to all ages. A schedule of events is available on the Framingham Reads Together Events page, including release forms for the REI Climbing Wall program and the details of Greg Mortenson’s visit.

Copies of Three Cups of Tea, in book and audio form, are available at both the main library and at McAuliffe so if you have limited sitdown reading time, you can listen to the book while in your car or doing activities around the house.

Check the library’s website or call 508-532-5570 for updates.

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