A One-Time Book Club group is forming now to read and discuss Kirsten Downey’s The Woman Behind the New Deal: The Life and Legacy of Frances Perkins, Social Security, Unemployment Insurance, and The Minimum Wage. Anne Brataas and Joan Drury will lead the discussion at Grand Marais Public Library on Wednesday, February 5, at 1 p.m. All are welcome to partake.
“Frances Perkins was an extraordinary lady,” commented Interim Library Director Amanda St. John. “She was the first woman in the U.S. Cabinet. As Secretary of Labor during Franklin Roosevelt’s administration, she supported workers’ rights by introducing the 40-hour workweek, 8-hour workdays, minimum wage…. Things we can take for granted.”
St. John explained that the book and discussion will enhance readers’ appreciation of Perkins’ legacy before February 12, when the library hosts independent filmmaker Mick Caouette and screens his 1-hour film Summoned: Frances Perkins and the General Welfare. The film has shown in major metropolitan areas and will air on PBS but has a rightful place in Cook County, where Caouette completed much of his screenwriting. The book, which comes highly recommended by Caouette, reads like a novel.
Grand Marais Public Library, Drury Lane Books, and Minnesota Children’s Press (MCP) are proud to partner together on these programs in honor of great literature and powerful ideas. The book club title is now available through the library and Drury Lane Books. For more information, please visit grandmaraislibrary.org.
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