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Book Review: Remembering "Labor Days" and When We Started

Writer's picture: Dahlia FisherDahlia Fisher


Rebel Readers Cleveland launched one year ago to be champions for diverse authors and build connections among readers. Now Dahlia Fisher and Felicia Haney, the book club's co-founders, are proud to celebrate one year of success rebelling against the idea that people from different backgrounds cannot - or should not - engage in civil discourse.


As we reflect on our first year as a book club, the launch of the semi-autobiographical novel, "Labor Days" by local author Joey Pompignano, remains a cornerstone of our shared experiences. The book's exploration of themes like resilience, determination, and the transformative power of mentorship continues to resonate with us.


The book's portrayal of Cleveland's working-class neighborhoods brought a sense of familiarity and authenticity to our conversations. We discussed the importance of preserving local history and culture and the role of literature in shaping our understanding of the city. Moreover, "Labor Days" inspired us to think critically about the issues facing our community today, such as economic inequality, educational disparities, and the importance of youth mentorship.


Beyond the book itself, "Labor Days" played a crucial role in solidifying Rebel Readers Cleveland as a vibrant and supportive community. The launch event brought together like-minded individuals who shared a passion for literature and a desire to connect with others. As we've continued to meet and discuss books, we've formed lasting friendships and created a space for open dialogue and intellectual growth.


One particularly resonant passage from the book is when Victor, the protagonist, reflects on the importance of community:


It’s a funny thing, community. You don’t really notice it until it’s gone. You don’t realize how much you depend on the people around you until they’re not there. But when you do realize it, it’s a powerful feeling. It’s a feeling of belonging, of being part of something bigger than yourself.

This sentiment echoed our own experiences as members of Rebel Readers Cleveland, and it reminded us of the importance of fostering strong community connections.


As we look ahead to the future, Rebel Readers Cleveland remains committed to exploring diverse voices and fostering meaningful connections. We hope to continue reading and discussing books that challenge our perspectives, inspire us, and contribute to a more just and equitable society.


We encourage you to join us on our literary journey by picking up a copy of "Labor Days" if you haven't already. And mark your calendars for the third Sunday of the month at 3pm to attend our book club meetings. Together, we can celebrate the power of storytelling and the importance of building a community that cares about each other.

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