Land of the free, so far

On September 11, HarperCollins had already printed 50,000 copies of celebrated documentarian, author and political rabble-rouser Michael Moore’s latest book Stupid White Men and Other Sorry Excuses for the State of the Nation. After the attacks, printing was suspended and Moore was told that, unless he changed the title and cover of his book, re-wrote several chapters critical of “W” and paid $100,000 for re-printing costs, his work would never see the light of day. After months of public protest, including a campaign launched by our nation’s librarians, the original book is on sale (an instant best-seller on Amazon.com) and Moore is touring the country discussing his experience. “As an American living during a time where our own government seeks to silence discussion and ‘manage’ the truth, it was important to tell you what I have seen, what I have been through, and to wonder what would have happened if I had not been a writer who was known … I don’t like this feeling, and I would greatly appreciate it if this country would come to its senses and start acting like America again (or least our IDEA of America!).” Moore will speak on Sunday, 3-6 p.m., at the Center for the Arts in Grass Valley. Definitely worth the drive. Call (530) 272-2131 for more information.