Read with us: the 2021 One Maryland One Book selection is Ross Gay's "The Book of Delights."
Encouraging a love of reading and a deeper sense of community, One Maryland One Book is like a statewide book club. Every Marylander is invited to participate through one of the hundreds of events happening around the state.
In a friendly competition, students in grades 6-12 immerse themselves in a facet of history that interests them by researching it in-depth and presenting it in a creative way.
This unique cultural collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and Maryland Humanities brings high-quality traveling exhibitions to small communities across the state, who make locally focused companion exhibits.
Veterans Book Groups aim to bring veterans of all eras together to talk about military experiences and returning to civilian life while providing an informal, supportive environment for discussion, spurred by the shared reading of literature.
A guided walking tour through Baltimore’s Mt. Vernon neighborhood visits the homes and haunts of some of our state’s literary legends, providing insights into the contexts and influences of their work.
With our network of partners, MCFB develops and supports literary programs that promote and celebrate books, reading, libraries, Maryland writers, and the state’s literary heritage.
Maryland Humanities brings oral history training to schools and communities with Maryland Voices, an oral history project led by Maryland Humanities staff and trained oral historians.
one maryland one book 2021
Join your friends and neighbors in reading this year’s One Maryland One Book selection with the theme of “hope:” Ross Gay’s The Book of Delights: Essays.
“We had a great experience working with Maryland Humanities. Your team was very hands on, provided clear guidelines and seemed glad to assist us throughout our process. Thank you so much for the support we received to carry out our event and do much needed social justice work in our city.”
“I had never done anything like this before so it was a totally new experience to write a paper, be interviewed, and defend my positions. I now really know how to do research and it has improved my writing skills.”
“Left on my own, I would choose the same kind of books over and over again. Now, [participating in One Maryland One Book,] my reading experience is broader and richer and all the more enjoyable.”
“[One Maryland One Book] brings cross curricular teachers together to the library to read, discuss topics and social issues in the book. It’s a way for students to read good books without the pressure of an assignment.”
“[One Maryland One Book taught me that] these types of book discussions that include diverse populations across the state open necessary dialogues to help solve problems. We need to have many more.”
I felt that I had a very unique oral history experience. It was very emotional and I feel that I learned valuable information. I got to learn stories and practice skills that normally I wouldn’t have been comfortable with.
“[The Museums on Main Street] project was a win-win for the University and community. It enhanced student learning; they gained the ability to explore divisive topics from multiple angles and viewpoints, developed the skills needed to create engaging visual and audio displays, and cultivated an aptitude for envisioning a tangible project from inception through completion, all the while involving them in the local community.”
“[I enjoyed] the selection of icons: Taylor [Branch], Isabel [Wilkerson], and Sherrilyn [Ifill] as a team!!! I died and am in heaven.”
I’ve loved judging! It’s exciting to see the passion the middle schoolers have put in their projects. I hope that my critiques have helped strive for excellence throughout their lives.
“The program has definitely helped me refocus on caring for patients versus helping physicians treat their diseases.”