City library book group to discuss Anita de Monte Laughs Last in October
– The Paso Robles City Library will hold its monthly book group on Wednesday, Oct. 15, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the Story Hour Room.
This month’s discussion will feature Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez. The book is available in regular and large print and as a book on CD through the Black Gold Library System. It is also available as an eBook and audiobook through the library’s Libby digital platform.
The novel moves between 1985 and 1998. In 1985, Anita de Monte, a rising star in the art world, is found dead in New York City. By 1998, her name has largely been forgotten. That year, Raquel, a third-year art history student preparing her final thesis, discovers Anita’s story. Raquel, a student of color at a school where such students are a minority, finds herself navigating pressures to work harder for the same opportunities. As she becomes involved with an older art student and rises socially, Raquel sees parallels between her own relationship and Anita’s past.
Organizers said the book explores power, love, and art, and raises questions about who is remembered and who is forgotten in elite circles.
The discussion will run until 7 p.m. Registration opens Friday, Sept. 19, at 9 a.m. The event is open to adults.
