Community Book Club
The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together
Dates:
*Registration remains open! Participants may still join after the start date.
November 10th Introduction - Chapter Two (xi-39)
December 8th: Chapters Three & Four (40-102)
January 12th: Chapters Five & Six (103-166)
February 9th: Chapters Seven & Eight (167-220)
March 9th: Chapters nine, ten, and the Afterword (221-300)
Time: 6:00–7:00 p.m.
Location: YWCA Lancaster Lobby, 110 N. Lime St., Lancaster, PA
About the Book Club
Join us for a five-month community book club exploring The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together by Heather McGhee.
Facilitated by Aimee Van Cleave, each session will provide space to reflect on key chapters of the book and connect its lessons to our own experiences. Together, we’ll ask hard questions, grapple with meaningful answers, and build community around shared learning.
Book Purchase
Books can be purchased at Pocket Books Shop in Lancaster. Mention that you’re joining the YWCA Lancaster book club to receive a 10% discount.
Why Join?
Deepen your understanding of how racism impacts all of us.
Engage in guided, thoughtful conversation.
Connect with community members committed to equity and justice.
All are welcome! No prior book club experience required, just bring your curiosity, openness, and willingness to engage.
About the Facilitator
Aimee Van Cleave
Book Club Facilitator
Aimee Van Cleave is an organizer, coach, trainer, and campaign manager. She is currently running an organization dedicated to youth voter engagement and outreach. She has worked in community and electoral organizing, lobbying, and advocacy for 13 years all across the country. Outside of work, she is an avid reader and book club facilitator. Aimee has worked to curate a book club experience that will help readers break down seemingly large policies into their origins in order to chart a path for social change. Follow her bookish thoughts and community building on Instagram at @sorryim_completelybooked