2025 One Book, One Read Recap

On Saturday, October 25th, Fulton County Library System hosted its annual One Book, One Read event. Every year, FulcoLibrary selects a book to highlight as part of this county-wide initiative to foster a love for reading among as many residents of Fulton County as possible. Branches throughout the Fulton County area host book discussions and other events, providing an excellent opportunity for readers to delve deeper into the themes and characters of the book while connecting with fellow reading enthusiasts.This year’s selection, Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson, tells the story of the daughter of an affluent Black family who pieces together the connection between a childhood tragedy and a beloved heirloom. 

One Book, One Read culminated in a series of in-person events held at Central Library. On Friday, October 24, twenty participants had the opportunity to take part in a writers workshop with Ms. Wilkerson, focusing on craft, creativity, and the writer’s journey. Then on Saturday, October 25, Ms. Wilkerson was the featured speaker in a public event in which she spoke about her writing process, the origin of the story idea, her family background, the development of the different characters, and much more. 

Following the hour-long interview, hosted by award-winning journalist Donna Lowry, attendees had the opportunity to ask their questions of Ms. Wilkerson. The enthusiastic crowd clearly loved Good Dirt as well as her first novel, Black Cake, based on the interaction with the author and the intelligent, insightful questions that were posed. At the conclusion of the event, attendees had a chance to have their books signed by Ms. Wilkerson.

Thank you to everyone who supported the One Book, One Read initiative, as well as those who attended this wonderful event. A special thank you goes to the Atlanta Fulton Public Library Foundation for their support of this Author Talk!