Long Beach to read 'Zorro' together - Contra Costa Times

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LONG BEACH — It's not always easy to find a book that captures imaginations across generations.

But Isabel Allende's "Zorro: A Novel" may have it all - action, adventure and romance all rolled up with true accounts of California history.

The novel by the best-selling Chilean author has been chosen as the next book for the "Long Beach Reads One Book" program presented by the Long Beach Public Library Foundation.

The 11 th annual event, which kicks off next spring, is a week-long celebration designed to get everyone in the city excited about reading the same book. Past selections have included "The Soloist" by Steve Lopez, "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury and "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee.

Sara Pillet, the foundation's executive director, said the historical novel was chosen because it melds the legend of a famous fictional hero with California's rich history.

"We wanted something fun, and this just seemed to get the light in everyone's eyes," she said. "We feel it's appropriate for generations and cultures throughout the community."

The novel, a chronicle of Zorro's life, begins by following the young Diego de la Vega as he grows up in Spanish colonial California and then travels to Spain. In Spain, he joins the secret society of La Justicia, dedicated to fighting all forms of oppression. Diego develops his alter ego, Zorro, and hones his skills as a superhero swordsman fighting for the underdog.

Zorro returns

to California to reclaim his family's estate, all the while encountering numerous historical figures.

Pillet said the foundation has a number of Zorro-themed activities planned for the week including fencing demonstrations, flamenco lessons and mask scavenger hunts.

The event in spring coincides with the 2012 re-openings of Long Beach's two historic ranchos - Rancho Los Cerritos and Rancho Los Alamitos. The ranchos will be celebrating new upgrades and offering tours throughout the week.

For information, visit www.lbplfoundation.org.

kelly.puente@presstelegram.com, (562) 499-1305

02 Oct, 2011

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Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNENxn9BcJ0Yjmv1-Gfre7ULhdUilA&url=http://www.contracostatimes.com/california/ci_19015810
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