Mission Impossible
Mission Impossible at Evanston Public Library is a community-driven reading challenge where participants are invited to tackle some of the most challenging books ever written. Designed to encourage readers to step out of their comfort zones, this program fosters a love for literature, promotes critical thinking, and creates a shared experience around thought-provoking, often complex texts.
Whether it's a classic novel, a dense nonfiction work, or a contemporary masterpiece, Mission Impossible brings readers together to conquer literary challenges, one page at a time.
The 2024-2025 selection is The Tale of Genji by Marasaki Shikibu, translated by Royall Tyler.
About the Book
The Tale of Genji is a classic Japanese literary work written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early 11th century. Often considered the world's first novel, it follows the life and loves of Hikaru Genji, the son of an emperor, who is demoted to commoner status. The story is set in the Heian period and delves deeply into court life, politics, and the complexities of romantic relationships.
Through a series of intricate narratives, it explores themes of love, beauty, impermanence, and the nature of human desire. The novel is known for its rich character development and poetic language, offering a profound reflection on the fleeting nature of life.
