Fall into history: Join this monthly book group for fascinating tales and discussions

Selected titles for the History Center's book group.
Selected titles for the History Center's book group.

Whether you’re joining in person or via Zoom, everyone is welcome.

As the leaves begin to change and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better time to delve into the captivating narratives of the past. The Tampa Bay History Center is thrilled to invite you to our much-anticipated Book Group, a monthly rendezvous with history enthusiasts, literary aficionados, and curious minds alike.

Our book group is more than just a collection of pages; it’s an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of human experiences, moments that have shaped societies, and the threads that connect our present to our past. Guided by a passion for history and a love for storytelling, we come together to read, discuss, and discover.

At the heart of our Book Group is a carefully curated selection of books that span eras, continents, and perspectives. From gripping accounts of pivotal events to intimate portraits of forgotten figures, each book offers a unique lens through which to view the annals of time. Our choices are as diverse as the subjects they explore, ensuring that every reader finds a connection to the stories we uncover.

But this isn’t just a solitary reading experience. Our monthly meetings are a chance to share insights, exchange thoughts, and engage in spirited conversations. Led by knowledgeable facilitators, each session is a dynamic exploration of the themes, contexts, and narratives that shape the chosen book. Whether you’re a history buff, an avid reader, or simply eager to learn, our group provides an inclusive and welcoming environment where all voices are valued.

Join us this fall as we turn the pages of history and embark on an intellectual journey that transcends time. The Tampa Bay History Center’s Book Group promises not only to enrich your understanding of the past but also to connect you with a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for discovery.

JOIN THE GROUP

Visit tampabayhistorycenter.org/book-group/ to explore our upcoming book selections, meeting dates, and registration details. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of an enlightening and enriching experience that bridges the gap between literature and history. Get ready to unearth the stories that have shaped our world and kindle new friendships along the way.

Book Group: “Wandering Stars” A Novel by Tommy Orange

Tampa Bay History Center 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL, United States

Colorado, 1864. Star, a young survivor of the Sand Creek Massacre, is brought to the Fort Marion Prison Castle, where he is forced to learn English and practice Christianity by 

FREE

Book Group: “Florida Girls” A Novel by L.L. Kirchner

Tampa Bay History Center 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL, United States

St. Petersburg, Florida, 1944. Thelma Miles can’t stomach injustice. Broke and orphaned near the close of WWII, the 18-year-old joins a troupe of touring swimsuit models, only to find she's 

FREE

Book Group: “Sharks Don’t Sink: Adventures of a Rogue Shark Scientist” by Jasmin Graham

Tampa Bay History Center 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL, United States

Sharks have been on this planet for over 400 million years, so there is a lot they can teach us about survival and adaptability. For example: how do sharks, which unlike other fish are denser than water, stay afloat? They keep moving. When Jasmin Graham, an award-winning young shark scientist, started to feel that the 

FREE

Book Group: “Florida Spectacular: Extraordinary Places and Exceptional Lives” by Cathy Salustri

Tampa Bay History Center 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL, United States

If when you think “Florida” you don’t think “spectacular,” Cathy Salustri is determined to change your mind. Explaining why the state is more than the “Florida Man” stories and the politics that so often make national news, and looking beyond the crowded beaches and theme parks, Salustri celebrates what makes the state worth a deeper 

FREE

Book Group: “If You See Them: Young, Unhoused, and Alone in America” by Vicki Sokolik

Tampa Bay History Center 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL, United States

A moving exploration of the crisis of homeless youth—told through the inspiring stories of a woman on the frontlines and the kids themselves. They hide in plain sight. They survive on free school breakfasts and lunches, join school sports teams in order to shower, sleep on friends’ couches, in parks, or on the streets. Their 

FREE

Book Group: Summer Reading Review

Tampa Bay History Center 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL, United States

Grab a cup of coffee and join us monthly for an informal discussion about the best in Florida literature. Topics range from fiction to food, poetry to politics. Free with registration, the History Center’s book group meets in person and via Zoom from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month. Everyone is welcome! 

FREE