Book Selection

Book Selection

Selecting a book is one of the most challenging and important aspects of a One Book program. There are many wonderful books from which to choose, and the success of your program will depend, to a large extent, on selecting one with broad enough appeal to engage your community. A representative committee is the first step in testing out a book choice. You might also want to survey the community (at the library or through the local newspaper, for instance) although it’s probably better to present a short list from which to choose.

However you choose to proceed, here are some criteria to consider:

  • Is the author still living? If so, the possibility of an author appearance can add to the book’s (and program’s) appeal.
  • Is it by a Maine author? Whether or not a personal appearance by the author is envisioned, a book by a Maine author can be a good draw.
  • The book should be readily available. Paperback format is desirable as it is inexpensive and actually preferred by some readers. Ideally, the book should also be available in large print and audio format. You could even consider books available in the languages spoken in your community to include the broadest possible audience in the reading and discussions.
  • The book should appeal to a broad cross-section of your target audience. In practical terms, it should not be too difficult for the average reader. Think about how to describe the book — can you do it in a catchy sound-bite?
  • As you will see from the list of books used in Maine’s One Book programs, both fiction and non-fiction have been selected. Whichever you choose, the book should be substantial enough to engage the interest of serious readers and make for good discussion. Does the book raise universal themes, and/or lend itself to a variety of questions and directions to explore?
  • Although the more relevant a book is to your community in terms of character, setting, or author ties, the more your audience will tend to connect with it, and with your program, there is much to be said for using books that take readers to other times and places. The book list will give you ideas.
  • Is the book’s content appropriate and engaging for both adult and young adult readers? Some One Book programs have included “companion” books for younger readers and listeners, so that the programs and events can be intergenerational.
  • Is the book required reading in your local school or college? Could it be? This is a natural tie in and an opportunity to boost participation.
  • Has your proposed title already been featured in a One Book program in Maine? This could give you excellent suggestions for speakers, programs and tie-ins; some Maine communities have even passed along publicity materials and giveaways. On the other hand, if a community nearby has already used your proposed title, you might want to select another one if you want to attract participants from that community.
  • Are film or theater adaptations of the book available? Incorporating many different media can enhance your program.
  • People learn and communicate in different ways; the more dimensions you can build into your programming, the more it will engage participants and connect them with one another.