Inaugural NSW Reads event scheduled for February 2021

Published on 17 December 2020

Lucky's author Andrew Pippos. Photo: Wes Nel

Cessnock City Libraries are excited to be taking part in NSW Reads in 2021. Billed as a “big book club”, it’s the first state-wide reading program of its kind.

From now until the 17 February 2021, library members across the state are encouraged to read Sydney author Andrew Pippos’s debut novel, Lucky’s. The book has been described as “a must-read saga, and a gripping monument to Greek diaspora” by The Guardian Australia.

Central to the theme of Lucky’s is the iconic Greek milk bar and café businesses, found in so many Australian towns and suburbs. NSW Reads celebrates the heritage of these venues and the migrant experience.

NSW Public Libraries Association Executive Officer Adele Casey said they are thrilled with the choice of novel.

“After a year that has been so isolating, it’s wonderful for readers to be able to come together and all read the same book. The librarians of NSW felt it was important to choose a novel with far reaching appeal. We feel that Lucky’s will resonate and deliver a sense of nostalgia to Australians of all ages in both metro and regional areas.”

To celebrate NSW Reads, local libraries will host live events throughout February 2021.  Readers can join in an Instagram read-along via @nswlibraryevents, take part in an online panel discussion on Greek-Australian cafes past and present, and meet the author Andrew Pippos online in a Lucky’s ‘In Conversation’ with Amy Heap from the Riverina Regional Library.

Cessnock City Library has copies of Lucky’s available for library members to loan and the eBook is available on the BorrowBox app. To borrow the book visit Cessnock City Library or pop in to your local branch.