45°
Margaret Mitchell's book "Gone with the Wind," became a popular juggernaut immediately following its 1936 publication, and more steam gathered when the1939 film was released. Since then, an industry catering to the public's continuing fascination has grown up around "Gone with the Wind," and on April 2, Pequot Library adds another chapter, displaying special editions of the novel and an original manuscript, as well as hosting a lecture celebrating GWTW's 75th anniversary. Many of the books in the exhibit are foreign language editions signed by author Margaret Mitchell. The books and materials were given to the library in the 1950s by George P. Brett, Jr. the book's publisher, who was also a library board member. Talking about this extraordinary novel are Ellen F. Brown and John Wiley, Jr., authors of "Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind: a Bestseller's Odyssey from Atlanta to Hollywood." Their book traces this blockbuster's backstory and describes how it exploded into a phenomenon of epic -- and enduring -- proportions. Both Brown and Wiley have been in the eye of the GWTW hurricane for some time. Virginia residents, Brown is a rare book dealer and writer. Wiley has amassed what's described by the Richmond Times-Dispatch as "one of the largest collections of GWTW memorabilia in private hands, including every American edition and more than 700 foreign editions." For nearly a quarter century, he has also put out a newsletter, "The Scarlett Letter," for GWTW's legions of fans. Hear them tell their insider tales about this Pulitzer Prize-winning book that is sure to outlive us all. The event runs from 3-6 p.m. and is free. For more information, visit Pequot's website.
Have you read the book and seen the movie? Let us know by posting below.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Norwalk and receive free news updates.
