Gather in J. Pierpont Morgan’s historic Library for an intimate book club discussion of Nella Larsen’s classic 1929 novel, Passing.
Join Rhonda Evans, Director, LuEsther T Mertz Library at the New York Botanical Garden for a facilitated conversation about the book. Throughout the evening, actors will read select passages from the novel as additional points of departure for discussion.
Set primarily in Harlem in the 1920s, Passing centers on the tension between two reunited childhood friends—one who chooses to cross the color line, and the other who chooses not to. Larsen’s searing portrait of these women’s internal conflicts straddles the edges of communities, identities, races, and speech—and ultimately lands in a place that defies categorization. Published during Belle da Costa Greene’s lifetime, the novel’s themes and the author’s own biography relate closely to the current exhibition, Belle da Costa Greene: A Librarian’s Legacy.
Please note that this program is organized as a participatory conversation and attendees are encouraged to read the book prior to the program.
This program takes place in J. Pierpont Morgan’s historic library. Doors to the library will open 30 minutes before the book club begins.
Please e-mail public_programs@themorgan.org with questions about accessibility.