Yes, I know this is a metaphor, but as a bookseller, and really as a book reader, I am taking this completely literally. We often hear this at markets. And frankly, we do put out the most attractive covers in hopes that a passerby will be intrigued.
So what does this have to do with Indivisible? I saw the book while we were looking through our wholesaler. The title and the cover intrigued me. And then I read the little summary and I knew immediately that I wanted to read the book for book club AND I wanted it in July. What has been interesting is the those that have picked up the book at our markets. Jerry and I have become pretty good at picking out those that would appreciate our little shop and those that should probably read the books we offer, but won’t (yes we are disobeying the metaphor as well). This book cover has brought in both parties! It is almost humorous to see those that THINK it’s going to be about the strong USofA and flock in, pick up the book without looking at ANYTHING (including the huge banner hanging, or either of us), then look at the back (which is mostly reviews) and immediately put the book down and awkwardly look around and leave quickly. Then there is the other side. People that have looked around and then see the book, maybe even timidly picking it up, maybe wondering how this book fits the mold of with the rest of the shop, then almost audibly sigh with relief when they realize the content.
I picked this book for July as we celebrate the independence the colonists gained from Britain. I picked it because I don’t feel like this is a great holiday to celebrate and I wanted to remember that many are still not free to live as they want; that many are still struggling to find acceptance in a country that is supposed to be welcoming, but may only be welcoming if your skin lacks melanin. I picked the book because I was struck by how the stripes of the flag looked like bars on a wall that was being built to divide. I picked the book because I felt the cover and the title contradicted each other.
Having read the book, I understand the title, I understand the cover and they work perfectly. I wish those that NEED to read it, had picked it up and decided to give it a try. I do feel like books help build empathy, but there has to be a WANT to learn and grow and unfortunately, the growth aspect of some in the country is being squashed. So, I am hoping that we, that are reading the book, find empathy and hope in this book. I look forward to discussing it with our group soon!