Art Sandy Springs Launches Reading Program With Bestseller "Rocket Boys"

Mayor Eva Galambos will recognize Arts Sandy Springs’ new reading program with a proclamation during Tuesday’s City Council meeting.

The first annual “Sandy Springs Reads” is a new program meant to engage citizens around one book and related activities. The program launches with “Rocket Boys,” the New York Times bestseller by Homer Hickman, Jr.

“Rocket Boys” inspired the 1999 film, “October Sky” and tells the story of six boys – sons of West Virginia coal miners –  resolved to take part in the race to space between the United States and Russia.

According to an Art Sandy Springs press statement, part of the philanthropy of the program is to donate copies of “Rocket Boys” to every middle and high school in Sandy Springs, the senior centers, and the students of the . The Sandy Springs Library will also stock up on extra copies of the book, the press release said.

“There is a true joy from reading and discussing ideas that come from literature with others," said Laura Jones, Sandy Springs Reads chairperson. "I hope everyone is as excited as I am about this program."

Upcoming Events for “Rocket Boys”

Planetarium show for children and telescope viewings by Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks.  7 p.m., April 20 at the Hitson Memorial Activities Center at Sandy Springs United Methodist Church.

“October Sky,” an outdoor screening by “Movies Under the  Stars.” Dusk on April 28 at the Hitson Memorial Activities Center at Sandy Springs United Methodist Church.

Sandy Springs Library

• Imaginations Soar Rocket Craft for ages 5-10 in celebration of Sandy Springs Reads featured book “Rocket Boys.” 4:30 p.m., May 1.

• The Wizardry of Lego Mindstorm Robotics and Rocketry by Youth Engaged in Science. 6 p.m., May 1.

• 3-2-1 Blast Off! Rocketry workshop for ages 7 to 12. 4:30 p.m., May 2.

• “Rocket Boys” book discussion and space race intrigue led by Lex McGee, NASA history buff and son of a member of Wernher von Braun's rocketry team.  10:30 a.m., May 4.

• Southern Area Rocketry (SOAR) presents Treasures of the Moon for all ages. 4:30 p.m., May 4.