What is Family Read?
Family Read is a month long event where kids and adults can read the same book, talk to other community members who have read the book, and participate in programs related to the book. We are very excited to be working together with Ypsilanti District Library for this event!
Events will kick off Saturday, March 11th, and go through Saturday, April 15th for our final Family Read Celebration and virtual author visit. The whole family can get involved, but the book is best for kids in the third to seventh grade. We will have programs for all ages related to the book!
Do you have to read the book to come to the programs?
No! While you will get the most out of the program and reading when you participate in both, it is not necessary to have fun at the programs.
Where do I sign up?
You can check out the book like any other at the library. We will have many copies available to check out. Those signed up for the special Maizy Chen Book Club, for kids in grades four to seven, will get a copy of the book to keep. Check out the events page here to sign up for individual programs.
The Book
Maizy Chen's Last Chance by Lisa Yee
Our 2023 Family Read book is a Newbery Medal Nominee, National Book Award Finalist, and winner of the Asian/Pacific American Award.
Twelve-year-old Maizy Chen is visiting her grandparents with her mom in Last Chance, Minnesota to help them out while her grandfather is recovering. However, the longer Maizy stays, the more questions she has about her family, both past and present.
Lisa Yee has said that this book is her most personal book she has ever written, and it is about love, acceptance, and the power of family, friends, and neighbors.
Want to know more about the book and author? Check out Lisa Yee's website.
Still want more? Read this Q&A with the author here, or listen to this podcast interview here.
Family Read Programs
Sign up for any of our programs here.
But wait! There's more!
You can also go to any of the programs at any of the Ypsilanti District Library branches! You’ll have the chance to make cream cheese wontons from the book, learn about composting, make tiny food, and more.
Check out their Family Read page.
Or take a look at their events calendar.
