Page 4 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, January 21, 2026 Malden Reads announces kickoff event featuring ‘Our Missing Hearts’ by Celeste Ng Free community celebration on Feb. 9 for all ages M alden Reads invites residents of all ages to kick off its 2026 community reading program with a free celebration on Monday, February 9, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Malden Public Library (36 Salem St.). This year’s book selection, “Our Missing Hearts,” by bestselling author Celeste Ng, explores themes of love, resistance and belonging. The kickoff event will bring together literature, history, art and conversation through interactive activities and experiences for all ages. No need to read the book in advance—everyone is welcome. Following are highlights of the event: ● Musical Performance: The band Tale Spin, fronted by chef and musician David Stein and his wife Sue, will perform acoustic protest music of the last century, including a community singalong. David and Sue have deep connections to Malden as former residents, and David is a former Malden Reads committee member who created memorable programs, including a pop-up restaurant and music club event featuring his band Soulshine. ● Yarn as Protest Art: Exploration of how fiber arts can be used as tools for peaceful protest and self-expression. ● Art Exhibition: View prints by Corita Kent (also known as Sister Mary Corita), the artist best known for her art on the Boston Gas tanks along Route 93 southbound in the 1970s as well as the Love stamp in the 1980s. Corita’s work and her messages of peace and social justice reflect her understanding of the power of language, just like in “Our Missing Hearts,” and continue to resonate today. ● Revolutionary Photo Stations: Step back in time with colonial costume photo opportunities and a model of a Boston Tea Party ship where participants can toss tea bales overboard, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and Malden’s role as the first town to declare independence. ● Video Screenings: Short videos by Malden Revolution’s Mark Linehan showcasing Malden’s revolutionary history and drawing connections between past and present acts of civic engagement. ● Arts & Crafts for All Ages: Led Established 1978 Mid-grade Regular 2.64 3.24 3.35 $3.37 Full Service ULS $3.259 Order online at angelosoil.com Kerosene Now Available! by Malden High’s Love 4 Kids club, offering creative projects that encourage connection and creativity. ● Heart-Shaped Cookie Decorating: A fun and delicious handson activity for participants of all ages. ● Refreshments: Food and drink will be available throughout the evening. ● Books Available: Attendees can borrow “Our Missing Hearts” Participants at a prior Malden Reads event from the library circulation desk with their Malden Public Library card. Volunteer support for the evening will be provided by the Malden High YMCA Leaders. About the 2026 Malden Reads program: Now in its 16th year, Malden Reads will explore themes from “Our Missing Hearts” related to civic ideals, revolution (including one’s own personal revolution), resistance and courage. The program purposefully coincides with the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and will highlight Malden’s unique role as the first town to declare independence from Britain in 1775. Age-appropriate companion books for younger readers and English learners will be announced soon and will be available to borrow from the Malden Public Library and donated to the Malden Public Schools and community organizations. The Malden Reads event season is planned to run into spring to provide opportunities for conversation and connection during the cold months and will include book discussions, film screenings and other special programs. The event schedule will be added as details become available. This program is funded in part by a grant from the Malden Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.Volunteers are always welcome. For more information or to get involved, email maldenreads@gmail.com, visit www.maldenreads.org and follow along on social media. EVERETT ALUMINUM SUPPLIES 67 Years! — Vinyl Siding — Carpentry Work — Decks — Roofing — Free Estimates — Replacement Windows — Fully Licensed — Fully Insured FLEET CARD Check Out Our LOW PRICES!
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