Books That Bring History and Community to Life

Ever wondered how people lived in the past or how communities shape our present? Let's dive into some fascinating books that do just that.

Historical Murder Mystery

A Necessary Death

• Setting: 1763, Boston
• Plot: Penelope Corbitt, a widow with two kids, discovers a dead body in the outhouse while traveling to live with her sister.
• Significance: Not just a whodunit, but a glimpse into the lives of women and girls in the 18th century. A reminder that history is about everyday struggles of ordinary people.

Art as Activism

Place-Keepers

• Focus: Latina/x artists in the Twin Cities
• Theme: Using art to challenge racial injustices
• Features: Stories of resilience and creativity, filled with drawings and artwork that bring the narratives to life.

Community Organizing

A Healthy Agitation

• Subject: West Side Community Organization in St. Paul
• Impact: Over three decades of improving lives of West Side residents
• Significance: A testament to the power of community organizing and its impact on a neighborhood.

Wildlife Conservation

A National Legacy

• Subject: Carrol L. Henderson
• Focus: Wildlife conservation in Minnesota
• Features: Beautiful photos of Minnesota's wildlife and the story of how the state became a national leader in conservation.

Conclusion

These books show that history is not just about the past but also about the present. They remind us that communities shape our lives in ways we often don't realize. And they show that art, community organizing, and conservation are all forms of activism that can make a difference in the world.