Read along & join the discussion as Cabarrus Reads On Agate Hill.

Every community has special traits that make it one–of–a–kind. These traits develop over time and are woven into the fabric of its citizens’ daily lives. In many ways, our community defines who we are. This comes through shared history, shared knowledge, and shared experiences. As our community grows and changes, it can become more difficult to maintain and to honor the traits that are unique and special.

One Book One Community is one way to bring together each diverse individual in Cabarrus County to share an experience together – the experience of reading the same novel. This collective experience not only encourages literacy; it also encourages dialogue and the expression of thoughts and ideas among individuals who may not otherwise find a connection.

A novel by Lee Smith, On Agate Hill explores our North Carolina roots during the Reconstruction Era following the devastation of the Civil War. Told through several voices with different perspectives, On Agate Hill follows Molly Petree, the “ghost girl,” as she finds her way through life while remaining true to herself. This bittersweet story takes us from a Piedmont plantation to a boarding school then to the mountains of Appalachia, where Molly discovers the depth of true love. Both young and old will identify with Molly as she forges her way through each new stage of life.