Papyri Books Celebrates Black History Month
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — WordPlay@Papyri Books, the monthly reading series and open mic for local authors, will celebrate Black History Month on Saturday, Feb.13 with a reading by the authors of a new book about Elizabeth "Mumbet" Freeman and an introduction to the Northern Berkshire African-American History Project.The evening begins at 7, with Berkshire-based authors Jana Laiz and Ann-Elizabeth Barnes reading from "A Free Woman On God's Earth: The True Story of Elizabeth ‘Mumbet’ Freeman," a juvenile biography for ages 8 and up illustrated by Jacqueline Rogers. Mumbet (1742-1829) was one of the first slaves to be set free in Massachusetts and in the newly formed United States.
Laiz, who studied anthropology and Chinese at NYU and Middlebury College, has taught all grade levels including university. She is passionate about the environment and endeavors to incorporate her earth-friendly philosophy as she teaches young people to explore and experience their world through the joy of writing.
Barnes has been a storyteller since she was a child, but this is her first published book. Ten years ago, she began the "Mumbet in the Schools" program, for which she has received numerous Massachusetts Cultural Council grants.
Later in the evening, Frances Jones-Sneed, Ph.D., a professor of history at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, will discuss The African American Heritage Project in the Northern Berkshires.
"A Free Woman On God's Earth" sells for $11.99 and will be available for purchase and signing at Papyri during the WordPlay event.
Papyri Books is located at 45 Eagle St. For more information, contact the store at 413-662-2099 or papyri@bcn.net, or visit www.papyribooks.net.
