World Book Night is a national campaign in which thousands of people go out into their communities to spread the joy and love of reading by giving out free World Book Night paperbacks.  To become a book “giver,” individuals must submit an essay about a favorite book and a deserving organization to receive free copies of the book.

Maurine Watts, of Harbor Springs (pictured second from left), was encouraged by a friend to participate in the nationwide campaign.  She chose Maya Angelou’s autobiography, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” from a list of 30 possible books and thought it appropriate for the Women’s Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM) to receive the free book copies.

Watts said she chose Angelou’s book, “because it is a wonderful story of triumphing over adversity and sexual abuse.”  Watts recalled the book from a college English class and when she re-read, it she was surprised to find it even more impactful.  Watts was particularly impressed with the author’s resilience indicating Angelou had experienced violence, sexual assault and rape during her life.  “The book is about how to overcome, persevere and move forward and that is what the Women’s Center is all about,” said Watts.

Watts was one of eighteen local people who signed up to be a World Book Night “giver” at McLean & Eakin Booksellers in Petoskey.  A million combined copies of free World Book Night U.S. editions have been printed for distribution on April 23, 2012.  Local book givers and their selected recipients will gather on this same date at McLean & Eakin to discuss and share their stories.  To learn more about this national campaign, visit worldbooknight.org.

Pictured with Maurine Watts  are WRCNM staff (L to R): Gail Kloss, Finance Director; Watts; Deb Smith, Assistant Director; and Jan Mancinelli, Executive Director.