In a nod to America’s 250th anniversary, the Livonia Public Library has chosen “The Small and the Mighty: Twelve Unsung Americans Who Changed the Course of History, from the Founding to the Civil Rights Movement” by best-selling author Sharon McMahon as the 2026 selection for our annual One City, One Book event.

I hear you: “I don’t want to read a HISTORY book.” This isn’t just any history book – it’s about ordinary Americans like you and me whose small acts of courage changed our country.

Sharon McMahon isn’t a typical teacher of history, either. Known as “America’s Government Teacher,” McMahon helps readers make sense of history, government and current events by breaking down complex facts and concepts.

In “The Small and the Mighty”, you’ll meet a woman astride a white horse riding down Pennsylvania Avenue, a young boy detained at a Japanese incarceration camp, a formerly enslaved woman on a mission to reunite with her daughter, a poet on a train, and a teacher who learns to work with her enemies. More than one thing is bombed, and multiple people surprisingly become rich. Some rich with money, and some wealthy with things that matter more.

McMahon’s message: powerful change is built by ordinary people doing the next needed thing.

One City, One Book programming celebrates the courage, hope and resourcefulness of Americans by providing opportunities to learn about their challenges, achievements and traditions. Try your hand at early American weaving and tin-smithing; experience 1930s and 1940s events through the eyes of Franklin Delano and Eleanor Roosevelt; prepare baked goods of our 20th century forefathers and mothers; explore the social and political commentary of 1960s pop art; meet upholsterer and flag maker Betsy Ross; discover Detroit’s station in the Underground Railroad; learn the origins of Rosie the Riveter; enjoy American roots music in the forms of acoustic folk and barbershop harmony.

Through a partnership between the library and the Livonia City Clerk, One City, One Book also celebrates the right of ordinary people to effect change with the power of their votes. On September 15, National Voter Registration Day, the City Clerk’s office will be at the library to help residents register to vote and answer questions about voting in Livonia. The library will also have fun voting-themed activities for all ages. Check out the library’s online calendar for times and activities.

Powerful change is built by ordinary people doing the next needed thing in their communities. One City, One Book is an opportunity for you to engage with your family and neighbors through reading, learning and conversation. One City, One Book events are scheduled in September and October, and all program information can be found on our website at livoniapubliclibrary.org.

Print copies of the book will be available for checkout at both branches of the library beginning Monday, August 31. E-book and audiobook versions are also available via the Libby app with your library card. We look forward to seeing you in the library this fall!