10:30am | Today marks the beginning of the annual Long Beach Reads One Book program, more than one week of local events to encourage reading in the community. Each year, a book is chosen by the Long Beach Public Library Foundation to read and share throughout the city.
This year, the book is “The Soloist,” written by L.A. Times columnist Steve Lopez about a mentally ill homeless man who possesses world class musical talent. The book was made into a major motion picture last year featuring Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx.
Today, there will be two opportunities to hear Lopez conduct a live reading of his book. The first is a 3:00pm fundraiser at 456 Elm Avenue, where the purchase of a $100 ticket will buy you a chance to hear Lopez, and enjoy appetizers and live music. Lopez and Long Beach first lady will also lead a discussion on mental health.
The second is a $30 event at the First Congregational Church at 3rd & Cedar, where Lopez will read as Press-Telegram managing editor Rich Archbold hosts and the Poly High orchestra plays live. Click here to visit the Long Beach Public Library Foundation for more information (you can also read the first chapter of the book at the website).
And now, on to the free events! The Long Beach Main Library is holding two viewings of “The Soloist” today, which are open to the public at 11:00am and 2:00pm.
On Thursday, Dr. Mark Ragins, M.D. of the MHA Village in Long Beach will discuss his experiences in assisting people with mental illness. Dr. Ragins advised Lopez during his early interaction with Nathaniel Ayers, the talented homeless man who is the subject of “The Soloist.” The event is at 7:00pm at Barnes & Noble on Pacific Coast Highway (until March 14, mention the Long Beach Public Library Foundation during any purchase and a portion of the sale proceeds will be donated to the LBPLF).
There will also be a public book discussion of “The Soloist” on Saturday at 3:00pm, at the North Neighborhood Library at 5571 Orange Avenue. On Sunday, there will be an all-day read of “The Soloist” from 9:00am-2:00pm at the Long Beach Sunday Farmers Market at Longfellow Elementary School at 3800 Olive Avenue.
Happy reading!