More Than A Book

AFSCME members, in which I am a member, not only excel at their jobs. Many of them are union activists, elected officials and community leaders. One, Susan Patron of Local 2626 (Council 36), is an accomplished writer.
A senior librarian at the Los Angeles Public Library who has been with AFSCME since 1972, Patron was recently awarded the prestigious 2007 Newbery Medal for the most distinguished American children’s book published the previous year.
“It is overwhelmingly, brilliantly, amazingly wonderful to win the Newbery, and a huge honor,” Patron says.
Her winning novel, “The Higher Power of Lucky,” tells the story of 10-year old Lucky Trimble and her life among the eccentric characters of the California desert community of Hard Pan (population 43).
“I wanted to write a story about a girl who has limited resources and a lot of challenges, but who is spunky and funny and loving. I believe that we read for the enjoyment of a good story but also to figure out some of the mysteries of the world,” she adds.
“The Higher Power of Lucky” is Patron’s sixth published book. America’s public libraries play a critically important role in our national life. We should honor the library workers who nourish young minds and inspire the next generation of readers. We stand united with the American Library Association in our commitment to freedom of thought and expression.