Event box

Real Reads - The Unfit Heiress by Audrey Claire Farley In-Person

Hand holding an open book for Read Reads book club.Real Reads is the library's new book club for adults. Narrative non-fiction is the focus of Real Reads. 

This is an opportunity to meet new people, enjoy stimulating, insteresting and friendly conversations.

The April 29th selection is, The Unfit Heiress by Audrey Claire Farley.

THE UNFIT HEIRESS: The Tragic Life and Scandalous Sterilization of Ann Cooper Hewitt chronicles the fight for inheritance, both genetic and monetary, between Ann Cooper Hewitt and her mother Maryon. In 1934, aided by a California eugenics law, the socialite Maryon Cooper Hewitt had her "promiscuous" daughter declared feebleminded and sterilized without her knowledge. She did this to deprive Ann of millions of dollars from her father's estate, which contained a child-bearing stipulation. When a sensational court case ensued, the American public was captivated. So were eugenicists, who saw an opportunity to restrict reproductive rights in America for decades to come. This riveting story unfolds through the brilliant research of Audrey Clare Farley, who captures the interior lives of these women on the pages and poses questions that remain relevant today: What does it mean to be "unfit" for motherhood? In the battle for reproductive rights, can we forgive the women who side against us? And can we forgive our mothers if they are the ones who inflict the deepest wounds?"

Real Reads meets on Saturday mornings at 10:30 am, in the library.

Registration is required. Why not register now for the next meeting on June 24?

Print copies will be available at the first floor circulation desk, while supplies last.

 

Date:
Saturday, April 29, 2023
Time:
10:30am - 11:30am
Time Zone:
Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
Location:
Small Conference Room
Categories:
  Authors & Writing     Book Group     Older Adults  
Registration has closed.

Event Organizer

Profile photo of Emily Dowie
Emily Dowie

More events like this...