The Malden Reads Opening Celebration on Friday, Feb. 19 was out of this world. Held in 
the historic wing of the Malden Public Library, approximately 200 supporters kicked off the season to celebrate “The Martian” by Andy Weir.
Malden Reads, whose motto is “One City, One Book,” started in 2011 and features a new book every year. The hope is the community of Malden will read the same book and participate in community events and dinners that feature discussions of the book’s themes. The event attracted residents and readers of all ages, some first-time attendees, and others who have been coming for years and have consistently read the featured book. Those who hadn’t yet read this year’s selection, Andy Weir’s “The Martian,” seemed eager to pick a copy up at the library.
Themed tables, thanks to supporters like the American Association of Arab women who spotlighted Arab contributions to math and science and the Russian Cultural Group’s nod to the Russian space program, welcomed guests to a spirited evening of food, conversation, laughter and disco dancing.
Yes, Nomadik & friends orchestrated a killer 1970s dance celebration thanks to DJ Rick Freni to top off the evening’s festivities.
–Photos by Elizabeth Scorsello
Beautiful portraits!