The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

In 1972, workers in Pottstown uncovered a human skeleton during construction—secrets buried for decades in Chicken Hill, a diverse, impoverished neighborhood. Moshe and Chona Ludlow ran the Heaven & Earth Grocery Store, a
neighborhood hub. When authorities sought to institutionalize a deaf Black boy, the community, led by Chona and Nate Timblin, fought to protect him.

The story highlights the hardships faced by marginalized residents and reveals how bigotry and deception harmed the community. Ultimately, McBride shows that love and community are what sustain us.

Please join us and help us decide what to read next!

Recommended for ages 18 and over.

Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. All programs are subject to change. See a schedule of upcoming events on the HSPLS Events Calendar.