Wednesday, September 30, 7 p.m.
This book group discussion is offered as a sequel to the Reading Frederick Douglass Together community gathering held on July 5.
Homegoing tells the stories of two Ghanaian half-sisters and their progeny from the 1700s to the present day. One sister married a British colonizer; the other was enslaved. The novel traces the impacts of slavery and the power of memory on both sides of the Atlantic.
“I think I needed to read a book like this to remember what is possible. I think I needed to remember what happens when you pair a gifted literary mind to an epic task. Homegoing is an inspiration.” — Ta-Nehisi Coates
The discussion will be facilitated by Marita Banda and Cammie McGovern. Banda teaches African American Literature (including Homegoing) and co-advises the Best Buddies club at Amherst Regional High School. She is co-authoring Supports and Challenges for Justice-Centered ELA Educators across the United States, including the chapter “Love and Joy at the Center of Everything: Teaching African American Literature as a Catalyst for Change.” McGovern is the author of 11 books, including her newest novel, The Last Letters of Sally and Walter. She co-founded Whole Children and Milestones, a resource center for children and young adults with disabilities and their families.
Reservations: 413-253-2977 or office@amherstsouthchurch.org
Arts & Social Justice Series at South Church
This event is part of South Church’s 2026 Arts & Social Justice Series, which offers concerts, community gatherings, and cultural events.
This program is supported by funding from Mass Humanities; the Massachusetts Cultural Council; the Town of Amherst Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Jones Library; and South Congregational Church.