The novel “Orphan Train” is the second book chosen for “OC Reads,” a program promoted by the Ocean City Free Public Library.
“OC Reads” is designed to bring people together through literature by encouraging them to read the same book and participate in discussions and other events centered on that book. “OC Reads” celebrates reading, literacy, and all that public libraries do.
“Orphan Train” by Christina Baker Kline explores the little-known story of so-called orphan trains that ran regularly from cities on the East Coast to farms in the Midwest, carrying thousand of abandoned children between 1854 and 1929.
In the bestselling novel, the lives of an older woman, Vivian Daly, and a teenager, Molly Ayer, intersect. Vivian had been sent away from New York City on the orphan train as a young Irish immigrant. Molly is a Penobscot Indian who’s been in and out of foster homes. When she’s assigned community service helping Vivian clean out her attic, Molly helps Vivian rediscover her past while learning some things about herself
A schedule of book discussions and events related to “Orphan Train” will be forthcoming from the library.
“Orphan Train” is available through the library and for purchase at Sun Rose Words & Music, 756 Asbury Ave. and at the Bookateria Two, at 1052 Asbury Ave.
The first selection in the “OC Reads” program, which began last year, was the nonfiction adventure “Shadow Divers” by Robert Kurson.
For more information, call Karen Mahar at 609-399-2434, ext. 5238, or email Karen@oceancitylibrary.org
