In an effort to encourage youth reading, rapper/actor Common, born Lonnie Rashid Lynn, has launched The Corner, a national online book club. The Corner’s design is to help teen participants develop critical thinking skills and to discuss the various reading selections.
The book club’s mission statement reads “The Common Ground Foundation is dedicated to the empowerment and development of urban youth in the United States.”
Along with a feature book of the month, a list of certain books is specifically recommended with topics that promote messages of tolerance, compassion, and achieving social justice through nonviolent expression.
Members will also be able to blog to each other about relevant topics. A chance to chat online with members of the Common Ground Foundation will also be available. Other features include a monthly interview with celebrity artists who will talk about the importance of reading and their own favorite books.
The Common Ground Foundation will also host a national in which the book club members can participate. The winners of the competition will have their essay posted on the Common Ground Foundation website. They will also be given a chance to meet Common.
Common says of his efforts with the Common Ground Foundation that “I started the Common Ground Foundation because I wanted to help. Most of all help people help themselves. I always believed that if we started with the youth then we would be planting the seeds for our future to blossom. Give the children a sense of hope, self-esteem, and love that will better the world. I think making a difference in the lives of others is my life’s greatest purpose. I walk this path with faith knowing the Common Ground Foundation will change the world.”
from UrbanMag Online
