Each of us has a book of stories of our own.  These stories, from travel and home to struggles and triumph, define us as individuals and as members of society, allowing room for fellowship, commonalities and inspiration.  On Thursday, November 7 at 2:00 PM, the IU East Campus Library will be hosting a Talking Books event, where members of the IU East and Richmond community will share aspects of their lives with others willing to listen.

The Talking Books project is a rare opportunity for small group conversations about topics that many people are uncomfortable discussing.  Some of the stories to be shared involve survival, questioning faith, mental health challenges and immigration.  Yet they also include hope, reunion and a strong sense of family.  One “book” is about holding together a family while applying for visas and US citizenship after 9/11.  Another focuses on how depression has affected a single family over three generations.  Other books touch on subjects as diverse as the Holocaust, trust, sexuality and faith.  These storytellers have bravely agreed to share their stories to let others know they’re not alone and to help empower those who need to hear them.

As storytelling people, we engage our world with stories and define our endeavors in terms of narratives.  We remember relatives, friends, loved ones, even pets, through the stories we tell about them, and we recall our own lives in stories.  The Talking Books project is open to students, staff, faculty and the greater community as a chance to take in these important stories. Do you have any questions about the Talking Books Project?  Would you be interested in being part of a future event?  Ask Us!  iueref@iue.edu.