Author to Visit Stevens Memorial Library

May 9, meet author Bruce Watson and learn about his book "The Bread and Roses Strike: Class Warfare in Massachusetts" at the in North Andover.

A century ago this winter, thousands of workers stormed out of the massive textile mills in Lawrence, Massachusetts.  They were protesting a pay cut of 32 cents per week but they were really on strike for their lives.  By the following Monday, 20,000 workers stood on picket lines that stretched for blocks.  Facing them were battalions of State militia with their bayonets ready. Despite predictions of a quick settlement, the strike grew into a Dickensian drama, a bloody, year-long affair that ended in patriotic parades and a suspenseful murder trail. With novelistic detail, Bruce Watson's “Bread and Roses” tells the story of strikers from 51 nations parading through the streets, sending their children into the care of strangers, and sticking together despite all odds.  With its rapid pace and explosive details, “Bread and Roses” is a truly American story with a narrative one typically sees only in fiction.

"A fast-paced, well researched narrative . . . “Bread and Roses” is packed with facts, but Watson . . . makes it an exciting read."  New York Times (Editor's Choice) 

"Watson dramatically and effectively brings back to life the 1912 Lawrence strike . . . “Bread and Roses” is a story well-told."  Chicago Tribune 

"A spirited account . . . As events tumble upon one another - marches, protests, arrests, soup kitchens, negotiations - Watson . . . keeps firm control of the story."  Boston Globe

The program is offered free to the public, all are welcome.  Thanks to the Friends of the Stevens Memorial Library for sponsoring this program.

For more information about the author, visit his website:  HYPERLINK "http://brucewatsonwriter.com/bruce-watson-bread-roses/" http://brucewatsonwriter.com/bruce-watson-bread-roses/