Winnipeg, MB - Manitobans have selected The Lucky Ones by Anne Mahon as this year's featured book for the 6th annual On The Same Page initiative.
On The Same Page, a partnership between The Winnipeg Foundation and Winnipeg Public Library, encourages all Manitobans to read, and talk about, the same book at the same time. The program includes book giveaways, author appearances and special events taking place in early 2014.
Published in 2013 by Great Plains Publications, The Lucky Ones is a compelling collection of stories told by African refugees now living in Manitoba. We read about how their lives were ripped apart and what they did to build new ones. The stories are told in their own words with calm, matter-of-fact dignity that underplays the horrific challenges they have faced.
In the pages of this book, we meet men and women ranging in age from four to 73, representing a variety of African countries and backgrounds.
The accounts, as compiled by Anne Mahon, tell us much about the strength of the human spirit. These refugees demonstrate an openness to change and an unwavering gratitude that is an inspiring lesson for Canadians fortunate enough to live here already.
"Winnipeg is a diverse, multi-cultural city and being a new Canadian is an experience that many of our citizens share," said Mayor Katz. "It is my hope that the extraordinary collection of stories found in The Lucky Ones will inspire discussion, encourage an exchange of ideas, and promote understanding."
One of four titles shortlisted for the 2013-14 On The Same Page program, The Lucky Ones garnered the most selections through online and in-person voting between June and September.
"I am thrilled that the The Lucky Ones was nominated for the On the Same Page program and has been selected by Manitobans for 2013. It is a testimony to the participants and their uplifting stories of loss, suffering, and perseverance. Ultimately this book's message is one of gratitude and hope," said the book's author, Anne Mahon.
"On The Same Page encourages lifelong literacy, celebrates Manitoba arts and culture and helps build community through conversation and shared experience," says Rick Frost, CEO of The Winnipeg Foundation. "We're pleased to partner with Winnipeg Public Library on this important community initiative."
On The Same Page was launched in 2008 and has featured In Search of April Raintree by Beatrice Mosionier, Reading by Lightning by Joan Thomas, Juliana and the Medicine Fish by Jake MacDonald, The Setting Lake Sun / Le soleil du lac qui se couche by J.R. Léveillé and Manitowapow: Aboriginal Writings from the Land of Water edited by Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair and Warren Cariou.
For more information, visit www.OnTheSamePage.ca
Author biography:
Anne Mahon's interest in telling the stories of African refugees grew out of her dedicated commitment to Canada's newcomers. She has been involved in a variety of community organizations and was nominated for the Lieutenant Governor's Make a Difference Community Award for her volunteer service. She lives in Winnipeg with her husband and their three children. This is her first book.