The Assistant Director and the Branch Librarian ventured out to another Book Group on Wednesday night to discuss Three Cups of Tea.The Book Group was lively, largely made up of Fairfield moms with great ideas and enthusiasm for reading and life. We discussed some elements of the life and character of the book’s subject – Greg Mortenson and the pivotal moments in his life. This book has so many aspects to it is a natural to prompt lengthy and provocative discussions.
The most profound comment made last night was made by a young mother who said: ” We needed this book right now.” MUSIC TO THE EARS OF LIBRARIANS EVERYWHERE! What did she mean?
Here are a few reasons:
1. We need to read to understand others and ourselves – books like Three Cups of Tea is a biography about Greg Mortenson. Greg does not lead the “average” life and we learn to appreciate how unique he is and how this makes him capable of being a successful mountain climber and then a really impressive – dare I say - awesome – humanitarian and hero.
2. We learn about different cultures from the American way of life. We may not appreciate all the aspects of a different way of life but it does give us a window onto other ways of living. For example, often we value material goods, compete with each other for status and wealth in the western world and we are not always happy. In poorer far more dangerous and precarious places like Afghanistan and Pakistan Greg encounters people who find satisfaction in drinking tea together and being accustomed to life unfolding in possibly a more “natural” less forced way. Greg learns patience from an illiterate wise man.
3. We need this book to have a glimpse at a group of people - Muslims – many people have demonized this religious following in the aftermath of 9/11. By spending time with these gentle, proud and welcoming people Greg encounters we understand their concerns are similar to our own. We realize we share the same dreams and aspirations with families the world over. Parents want their children to be safe, get good educations, and be happy in life.
And what about the more mundane but equally universal reasons for “needing” to read this book or any other?
4. The book is enjoyable to read. It is a cliffhanger. Many times we don’t know if Greg is going to survive let alone accomplish his mission.
5. Three Cups is well written and humorous in parts.
6. It is a great book for Fairfield. Men and women like it. Teens have read it. Excellence in education is a core value in our community. Providing an education for girls and boys in Pakistan and Afghanistan is the catalyst for their lives to change profoundly.
7. This book has prompted our community to gather together in libraries and other community centers, on the commuter train, in book clubs and share an experience. One of the best gifts to offer anyone is a wonderful book and even better – when you can share and bond through that experience.
Our young mom-reader was right: Three Cups of Tea is the right book at the right time for the individual reader, the book club, our community, and for readers anywhere.
