City of Grand Island

Grand Island, Neb. — Step back into a pivotal chapter of Nebraska’s history as the Grand Island Public Library Book Club convenes on Monday, September 8 at 5:30 p.m. (This date reflects a schedule change due to the Labor Day holiday on September 1)

The club will be discussing Kings of Broken Things, a gripping historical novel by Nebraska author Theodore Wheeler. Set in post–World War I Omaha, Kings of Broken Things follows the intersecting lives of three compelling characters: Karel, a European immigrant and baseball prodigy; Jake, a man burdened by his violent past; and Evie, a woman searching for freedom and self-determination.

Their stories unfold during the tense summer of 1919, as returning soldiers, racial divisions and political unrest converge to shape one of the darkest periods in Nebraska’s history. The novel builds toward the real-life events of the 1919 Omaha Race Riot, offering readers a haunting examination of how nationalism, xenophobia and political corruption can fracture communities and fuel unrest. This month’s discussion will explore the book’s powerful historical themes and their relevance to today’s social and cultural climate. New and returning participants are welcome to join the conversation.

The Grand Island Public Library Book Club meets monthly to engage with a wide range of contemporary and classic literature. Readers of all backgrounds are welcome to attend and participate in thoughtful, inclusive discussions. Meetings are typically held on the first Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m., year-round. The complete 2025–2026 reading list is available at: https://gilibrary.org/services/adult-services/book-clubs.

Free library cards are available to anyone who resides in or owns property within Hall County. Learn more at www.gilibrary.org or follow the library on Facebook and Instagram. Patrons may also manage accounts, browse the catalog and access digital collections at https://gilibrary.tlcdelivers.com.