One Book, One Town
One Book, One Town is a community-wide reading initiative in Downers Grove that brings residents together around a shared book and its themes.
Each year, EQDG partners with the Downers Grove Public Library to select a novel—often centered on identity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ experiences—and organizes a series of events such as book discussions, author talks, workshops, and social gatherings.
These events are designed to spark conversation, deepen understanding, and build connection across the community.
The Three Lives of Kate Cay is a contemporary novel that follows a woman who unexpectedly gets the chance to live out three different versions of her life after a pivotal moment. Each path explores how small choices can lead to vastly different outcomes—shaping her relationships, career, identity, and sense of fulfillment. As the story unfolds, it reflects on regret, possibility, and the question of whether there is a single “right” way to live.
2026 Book Selection
2025 Book Selection
A heartfelt, thought-provoking novel about family, identity, and unconditional love. The story follows Rosie, her husband Penn, and their five children as they navigate the complicated journey of their youngest child, who announces at the age of five that he wants to be a girl named Poppy.
2024 Book Selection
An enchanting story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place—and realizing that family is yours.
2023 Book Selection
Interweaving three connected storylines, David Levithan delivers a bold, fun, and timely story about taking action, being brave, and standing up for what’s right.
Highlights from OBOT 2025
