The Super Bowl bet that sparked a literary exchange! Seattle and Boston libraries engage in a friendly rivalry, but who will benefit the most?
After a wager between the Seattle Public Library and the Boston Public Library, the latter found itself on the losing end following the Seattle Seahawks' victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX. The stakes? A curated list of books, movies, and music showcasing the winning city's culture, aimed at the losing region's readers.
The Seattle Library's list, 'Seattle Picks for Patriots Fans', is a playful yet thoughtful selection of 35 items. It includes a historical fantasy novel, 'Comeuppance Served Cold' by Marion Deeds, which symbolizes the Seahawks' sweet revenge for their 2015 Super Bowl loss to the Patriots. But here's where it gets interesting: the list also features a book by former Seahawks player Michael Bennett, 'Things That Make White People Uncomfortable', addressing racism and the role of athletes in society.
The selection process was a collaborative effort, with Seattle Librarian Eric Grob and his team choosing items that highlight Seattle's culture, sports, and even poking fun at Boston's loss. And this is the part most people miss—it's not just about friendly banter; it's a chance to explore critical topics through literature.
The list also pays homage to Seattle's musical prowess, featuring works by local artists like Brandi Carlile and Clark Humphrey. And let's not forget the inclusion of sports journalism, with Michael-Shawn Dugar's book on the Seahawks' dynasty, 'The Franchise'.
Despite the friendly rivalry, both libraries united in their support for 'Books Unbanned', a program promoting reading freedom for young adults across the U.S. But does this mean the losing library truly lost? The Boston Public Library's gracious response suggests a win-win situation, as readers from both cities can now explore new perspectives and engage in cultural exchange.
What do you think? Was this bet a clever way to promote reading and cultural understanding, or just a lighthearted rivalry taken too far? Share your thoughts in the comments!
