Boys and Girls Club members in Tupelo are taking part in a city wide initiative that promotes reading and literacy. “Tupelo Reads” is an annual program that encourages residents to read the same book, and come together for activities promoting literacy.

This year’s book is Ginny Moon  the story of an autistic teenager.  Volunteers with “Tupelo Reads” have spent the past few days at the Haven Acres Boys and Girls Club, talking about key themes of the book with the young people. One of the most important is compassion.

“That was a big takeaway that they may encounter people who are different , not just with autism spectrum, but many other things and to deal with people that might be different in a compassionate way,” said Lisa Reed, chairperson of “Tupelo Reads.”

The book’s author, Benjamin Ludwig will visit Tupelo in September for “Tupelo Reads” community events.