Art Tatum Book Club

Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

A discussion group dedicated to diverse voices, perspectives, and authors. We'll aim to construct a meaningful conversation about anti-racism and embrace the diversity of our community.

Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

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In the 1950s Paris of American expatriates, liaisons, and violence, a young man finds himself caught between desire and conventional morality.  David is a young American expatriate who has just proposed marriage to his girlfriend, Hella. While she is away on a trip, David meets a bartender named Giovanni to whom he is drawn in spite of himself. Soon the two are spending the night in Giovanni’s curtainless room, which he keeps dark to protect their privacy. But Hella’s return to Paris brings the affair to a crisis, one that rapidly spirals into tragedy.  David struggles for self-knowledge during one long, dark night—“the night which is leading me to the most terrible morning of my life.” With a sharp, probing imagination, James Baldwin's now-classic narrative delves into the mystery of loving and creates a deeply moving story of death and passion that reveals the unspoken complexities of the human heart.

Art Tatum was one of the greatest improvisational musicians in the history of jazz and is heralded for his artistic vision and technical ability.  The Art Tatum African American Resource Center is dedicated space to provide educational and historical information on African American cultural heritage and experiences.  It is located within the Kent Branch and is open to visitors during Library hours.