Page 10 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, November 14, 2025 Malden Reads announces 2026 citywide book selection M alden Reads, the community reading program that invites the entire city to read and discuss a common book, is proud to announce its 2026 selection: “Our Missing Hearts” by bestselling author Celeste Ng. Themes from “Our Missing Hearts” Set in a near-future America marked by fear, censorship and division, “Our Missing Hearts” explores what happens when a society built on democratic ideals begins to fracture. The novel follows a young boy searching for his missing mother — a poet whose words have been deemed dangerous by the government — and examines how art, storytelling and human connection can resist oppression and ignite hope. This year’s Malden Reads program will use “Our Missing Hearts” as a lens to explore themes that resonate deeply with our current times: • Civic ideals and the foundations of democracy — and how they are tested when fear and control take hold • Children’s experiences during times of social and political upheaval — their resilience, loss and capacity for empathy • Revolution, resistance and courage — and the role of ordinary people in standing up to injustice Programming throughout the season will draw meaningful parallels between Ng’s fictional world and real-world issues, including the treatment of immigrant families and the human stories behind recent federal detentions. Discussions, exhibits and community conversations will also highlight how libraries — both in the novel and in our own communities — serve as sanctuaries for truth, connection and promoting civic engagement. In “Our Missing Hearts,” liSt. Anthony’s Flea Market Festival of Trees 250 Revere St., Revere, Lower Hall November 8 * 2:00 - 8:00 PM November 15 * 10 - 8:00 PM Santa arrives Saturday * 12-2 Free hot dogs and chocolate milk 12-2 The 2025 Opening Celebration at Bread of Life with members of the Malden Reads steering committee, Mayor Gary Christenson, other elected officials, members of the Malden High School club MHS Love 4 Kids and others (Courtesy photo) braries become a new kind of underground railroad, preserving knowledge and humanity when both are under threat. Beginning in 2026 these themes, along with one’s own personal revolution, will be explored through programming. Malden Reads will use the book “Our Missing Hearts” as a way to help the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution come alive. Malden has a special role in the American Revolution as the first town to declare independence from Britain in their Town Instructions in 1775. Not only did Malden formally declare their wishes in this manner, but Malden’s militia was heavily involved in the resistance to Britain. Plans for 2026 Malden Reads invites residents, schools, organizations and businesses to participate in a full season of events beginning in January 2026. Activities will include book discussions, film screenings, art exhibits, cultural programs, and special events designed to engage readers of all ages and backgrounds. We will be hosting and collaborating with other organizations throughout 2026 celebrating our city’s role in the American Revolution and will be hosting civic learning opportunities and multiple ways to connect with our city’s and Boston’s history. Programs related to civic learning are funded in part by the Malden Community Connections Grant to bring the people of our community together. Books will become available for checkout from the Malden Public Library. Books are also available for purchase from The Gallery@57, a unique retail store in Malden run cooperatively by local artists. Books may also be purchased from our favorite local independent booksellers, including The Book Oasis in Stoneham, Molly’s Bookstore in Melrose, and Porter Square Books in Boston and Cambridge. About Malden Reads “What if all of Malden reads the same book?” Malden Reads is a community reading program in Malden that seeks to answer that question. Organized by community groups, city leaders, and residents, in collaboration with the Malden Public Library, the program invites the community of Malden to read the same book and participate in a series of events related to the book’s themes. The goals of the program are to promote literacy, a love of reading and an appreciation of city resources, and most of all, to build community within Malden. Books in other languages as well as an e-book and audio versions will also be available. In addition to the main book selection each year, Malden Reads selects companion books for younger readers and English language learners so that everyone can participate in the annual program. Malden Reads distributes free books and resources to schools and community programs in Malden, offers the books in quantity and in a variety of formats for lending through the Malden Public Library and provides sales of books at local events and locations. To contact the committee with questions about the book, to collaborate on a program, to volunteer or to be added to the email newsletter list, please email maldenreads@gmail.com.
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