BOOK NOTES

Two roads diverged

Fresh air, an invigorating walk in nature, inspiration from the great outdoors and the world of language: what more could you want from a weekend? Poetry in the Park: Odes is a writing workshop for adults and students 16+, at Oak Openings Preserve, Sunday, February 5 at 2pm at Buehner Center. After reading a selection of poems, take a walk through nature and let the muse hit you. Dress for the weather and bring a hot beverage. Notebooks and pens provided. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. $5. Register online at metroparkstoledo.com. 419-360-9179.

Nothing changes until it is faced

In the aftermath of the protests of 2020, the Toledo Lucas County Public Library started a discussion series called the Big Idea Book Group “dedicated to diverse voices, perspectives, and authors” with the aim of “construct[ing] a meaningful conversation about anti-racism and to embrace the diversity of our community.”

Eddie S. Glaude Jr.’s book Begin Again: James Baldwin’s America and its Urgent Lessons for Our Own is the focus of this month’s discussion, Tuesday, February 28, 5:30-6:30pm. Discussion group meetings take place via Zoom. Registered participants will be emailed meeting information prior to the event. Register at toledolibrary.org.

Lunch and Learn on Lakes

New this year, the National Museum of the Great Lakes hosts a monthly online book discussion group that engages with ideas of sustainability, natural resources, climate change and more. The February selection, The Death and Life of the Great Lakes by Dan Egan, is available for purchase at the Museum Store, though participants are not required to buy the book. Register on Eventbrite for the online program Tuesday, February 28 from noon-1pm. nmgl.org.