Author Marilyn Johnson to Lead Community Reading Experience

"Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble," the New York Times bestseller by Marilyn Johnson, is the inaugural selection in the Scarsdale Public Library's What Scarsdale Is Reading community reading experience.

Johnson will discuss her book at the library on, Monday, March 9, at 7:00 p.m. A wine and cheese reception and book signing will follow. The program is free and open to the public.

What Scarsdale Is Reading engages residents in a communal literary experience. Four times a year, a committee of volunteers will choose a book they believe reflects the interests of the community. The library will make the book available in multiple formats, provide discussion questions, and hold an author reading or special event around the book.

Chosen for its intriguing subject matter and witty narrative, "Lives in Ruins" invites the reader to join Johnson as she accompanies archaeologists from the Mediterranean to Machu Picchu, and even more locally in Fishkill, NY, as they uncover clues of civilizations' past. Her entertaining account digs into what drives those with a passion for human rubble.

"Community read programs have elevated the literary dialogue in towns and cities across the country," says Library Director Elizabeth Bermel. "What Scarsdale Is Reading is a natural fit for a well-read community like Scarsdale."

Michelle Lichtenberg, President of the Scarsdale Library Board of Trustees, notes, "What Scarsdale Is Reading offers an opportunity for neighbors and friends to read a special book, and then gather together at the library for a lively discussion. We encourage members of the many book groups in town to participate in this community event."

Copies of "Lives in Ruins" are available through the library in e-book, hardcover, and audio versions. Discussion questions for book groups and individuals can be found on the library website (www.scarsdalelibrary.org) or at the What Scarsdale Is Reading display table in the library.

To reserve a copy of the book, go to the library website or call the Reference Desk at 914-722-1302.