Markus Zusak’s bestseller was voted to be the first community-
wide read. Set during World War II, it tells the story of Liesel
Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich who survives by
stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist –books.
With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns
to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during
bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her
basement before he is marched to Dachau. A variety of
presentations will take place that involve the whole family. At
2 p.m., Rick Fogarty, associate professor of History at SUNY
Albany, will present, “Take Up and Read: Books and Survival in
Wartime.” This program is appropriate for all ages, including
children in grades 5 and up accompanied by an adult. Afterward,
there will be a showing of two short films, “The Short Life of
Anne Frank” and “The Butterfly” at 3:15 and 4 p.m. Throughout
the afternoon, you’ll also be able to create a one of a kind
butterfly to be sent to the