Pages of the Past, A Nonfiction Bookclub

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Join Judy Woodruff, veteran PBS NewsHour anchor, as she delivers the inaugural Patty Isacson Sabee Fellow lecture at Planet Word. Drawing from her cross-country reporting, Judy will explore media, democracy, and the power of words to shape our nation’s future.

Judy’s reporting over a five-decade career demonstrates the critical importance of listening to others, reflecting on their words, and building community. Her work reflects how a careful adherence to truthful journalism builds an informed citizenry and strengthens democracy. The tenor of the 2024 election proves this approach is more urgent than ever.

Over the past 20 months, Judy has journeyed across America, uncovering powerful stories of political division and highlighting work to bridge our differences. Her reporting reveals the deep-seated roots of our nation’s polarization: rural vs. urban, economic disparity, mistrust of government, and anxieties about demographic change.

Don’t miss Judy’s insights on navigating these divisions to tackle America’s most pressing public policy challenges. After the lecture, engage directly with Judy in a dynamic Q&A session.

For questions or concerns regarding accessibility needs, please contact [email protected].

The Patty Isacson Sabee Fellowship, established in 2023, honors Planet Word’s inaugural executive director, who championed Planet Word’s core values to make the museum fun, playful, unexpected, meaningful, motivational, and inclusive. Patty’s dedication to amplifying all voices and empowering visitors to use their words for good guides the selection of each Fellow.

We are excited to announce our November 2024 book club event, where we will delve into “The Wolves of K Street: The Secret History of How Big Money Took Over Big Government” by Brody Mullins and Luke Mullins. This captivating book by two veteran investigative journalists takes us on a journey through the rise of the modern lobbying industry, tracing its impact on American politics and democracy.

About the Book:

• Synopsis: The book examines the evolution of lobbying in Washington, D.C., from the 1970s to the present day. It highlights the three political dynasties—one Republican and two Democratic—that facilitated the infiltration of corporate interests into government. The authors explore the lives and careers of influential lobbyists who shifted the power dynamics in the city.
• Key Themes: The transformation of lobbying practices, the influence of money in politics, and the ethical implications of “shadow lobbying.”

Discussion Points:

1. The historical context of lobbying in Washington, D.C., and its evolution over four decades.
2. The profiles of key figures in the lobbying industry and their strategies for wielding influence.
3. The impact of corporate money on political decisions and democratic processes.
4. Ethical considerations and potential reforms for lobbying practices.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of money, power, and politics.

We are thrilled to announce our December book club pick featuring the profound and beautifully written "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer. This book not only explores our relationship with nature through the lenses of science and indigenous wisdom but also provides deep insights into the history of indigenous peoples and their sustainable practices.

About the Book:

As a botanist, Robin Wall Kimmerer has been trained to ask questions of nature with the tools of science. As a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, she embraces the notion that plants and animals are our oldest teachers. In "Braiding Sweetgrass," Kimmerer brings these lenses of knowledge together to show that the awakening of a wider ecological consciousness requires the acknowledgment and celebration of our reciprocal relationship with the rest of the living world. For only when we can hear the languages of other beings are we capable of understanding the generosity of the earth, and learning to give our own gifts in return.

Why Join Us?

• Engage in thoughtful discussions about the themes of gratitude, reciprocity, and ecological harmony.
• Learn how the book provides insights into history through indigenous knowledge, traditions, and perspectives, offering lessons on sustainable living and land stewardship.
• Explore the impact of colonization on indigenous peoples and their lands, and how the revival of indigenous languages is integral to cultural identity and historical continuity.
• Enjoy a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where book enthusiasts can connect and inspire one another.

We look forward to an enriching conversation and the opportunity to delve into the wisdom, beauty, and historical insights of "Braiding Sweetgrass" together.

Happy Reading!

The Planet Word museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits, including a karaoke room, a word wall, and a library, that explore the history of language and the power of words.

Let’s explore the history of language together!