Read Against the Machine

Read Against the Machine is a nonfiction book club exploring social, cultural, historical, and political topics. Selections highlight varied perspectives and encourage readers to think critically about the ideas and narratives that shape contemporary life.

In July, we are reading Myth America by Kevin M. Kruse and Julian E. Zelizer.

"The United States is in the grip of a crisis of bad history. Distortions of the past promoted by partisan pundits and politicians have led many to believe in fictions over facts, making constructive dialogue impossible and imperiling our democracy. In Myth America, Kevin M. Kruse and Julian E. Zelizer assemble an all-star team of fellow historians to push back against this misinformation by setting the record straight. These contributors debunk narratives that portray the New Deal and Great Society as failures, immigrants as hostile invaders, and feminists as anti-family warriors—among numerous other partisan lies. Based on a firm foundation of historical scholarship, their findings revitalize our understanding of American history."

Join us for discussion on the fourth Thursday of the month.

A limited number of copies of the book selection are available to check out at the downstairs circulation desk.