District 11 Book Club to Discuss Silent Spring by Rachel Carson – April 9 at Sequoya Library

Earth Day, observed on April 22, is a global call to action for environmental protection. Since its launch in 1970, it has united millions in advocating for a healthier planet.

In celebration of Earth Day, the District 11 Book Club will discuss Silent Spring by Rachel Carson on April 9th from 7:00–8:30 PM in the Sequoya Library’s main conference room.

Published in 1962, Carson’s groundbreaking work exposed the dangers of pesticides like DDT and their harmful effects on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Consistently ranked among the most influential books in American history, Silent Spring is widely credited with sparking the modern environmental movement and influencing political thinking that changed public policy. As Vice President Al Gore wrote in the introduction to the book’s 1994 re-release, “The impact of Silent Spring has been compared to that of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Both ranked among the rare books that have transformed our society.”

How could intelligent beings seek to control a few unwanted species by a method that contaminated the entire environment and brought the threat of disease and death even to their own kind?
— Rachel Carson, Silent Spring

Silent Spring ignited public awareness and activism, leading to the U.S. ban on DDT, the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970, and the expansion of landmark legislation such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act.

Today, Earth Day remains a vital platform for addressing climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. However, recent policy shifts and federal funding cuts have weakened key environmental protections, raising concerns about their future effectiveness. As we reflect on Silent Spring and its lasting impact, we are reminded of the power of informed activism and the urgent need for continued environmental stewardship.

Please consider attending the next District 11 Book Club event on April 9th at 7:00 PM in the main meeting room at the Sequoya Library. A limited number of copies will be available at the Ask Desk on a first-come, first-served basis. This casual, public event is open to all, and even if you haven’t finished the book, you're encouraged to attend and join the conversation!

Sequoya Library
Meeting Rooms A and B Combined
Apr 9 | 7 - 8:30pm
4340 Tokay Blvd Madison, WI 53711 (map)