Sandra Cisneros' The House on Mango Street was the spring 2009 One Book, One Chicago selection

March 31, 2009

The book's story of Esperanza and her search for identity has been enjoyed by readers for 25 years and was awarded the American Book Award in 1985. Vintage Books is issuing a 25th anniversary edition of the book, which will be available in bookstores and all Chicago Public Library locations this month. First published in 1984 and set in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood, this award-winning story of a young girl's quest to find her sense of "home" will resonate with all Chicagoans.

"The Library is proud to be able to share this touching story with all Chicagoans, whether they are discovering it for the first time or re-reading it – it represents our city of neighborhoods. The beauty of the story, to me, is that while this young girl searches for a 'home' of her own somewhere in the world, she fully appreciates her family and neighbors and understands that they will always be a part of who she is," said Library Commissioner Mary Dempsey. "I think that is what all of us feel about Chicago, that no matter where we go, this city is always a part of us."

Nearly 2,000 copies of The House on Mango Street, in both English and Spanish are available at Chicago Public Library locations. At seven Chicago Public Library branches, patrons can check out a Book Club in a Bag which contains eight copies of the novel and resource guides. Chicago Public Library librarians have created resource guides and will conduct book discussions across the city. Thousands of Chicagoans are expected to participate in book discussion groups, lectures, dramatic readings and cultural events. One Book, One Chicago can be experienced in virtually every Chicago neighborhood throughout April. This includes book discussions, film screenings, lectures, and panel discussions.

Sandra Cisneros will appear on April 14 at the Harold Washington Library Center to read from the book and discuss her prestigious career.

As a prelude to their fall production of Tanya Saracho's adaptation of the book, Steppenwolf Theatre will host a staged reading of The House on Mango Street in their Upstairs Theatre on April 27th. Ms. Saracho will also be featured at the Proyecto Latina monthly reading series featuring Latina artists on April 20 at Radio Arte.

Additionally, Shimer College, located on the campus of the Illinois Institute of Technology, will hold a staged reading and discussion. One Book, One Chicago discussions will also take place at select Barnes and Noble locations, Literacy Chicago, Gerber/Hart Library, Wright College, Instituto Cervantes, Harold Washington College and Loyola University.

One Book, One Chicago programs are open to the public and free of charge. For an up-to-date schedule of events, visit the Chicago Public Library's site or call 312-747-8191.