Seattle Public Library's Super Bowl Bet Wins Over Boston Readers
The Seattle Public Library (SPL) has emerged victorious in a Super Bowl bet, leaving the Boston Public Library (BPL) to curate a list of books for the disappointed New England readers. The wager, a playful competition between the two libraries, was centered around the outcome of the Super Bowl LX, where the Seattle Seahawks trounced the New England Patriots 29-13.
The SPL's curated list, titled 'Seattle Picks for Patriots Fans', is a delightful blend of humor and cultural insight. It includes 35 books, movies, and music that showcase Seattle's charm, both on and off the field. From historical fantasy novels set in the city to thought-provoking books by local authors, the list offers a unique perspective on Seattle's culture and its impact on the sports world.
One of the highlights is 'Comeuppance Served Cold' by Marion Deeds, a historical fantasy novel that references the Seahawks' triumph over the Patriots in the 2015 Super Bowl. The list also features 'Things That Make White People Uncomfortable' by former defensive end Michael Bennett, a thought-provoking book that delves into racism, police violence, and the responsibilities of athletes as role models. For sports journalism enthusiasts, Michael-Shawn Dugar's 'The Franchise: Seattle Seahawks' offers a comprehensive history of the Legion of Boom era.
The list doesn't forget the city's musical heritage, with Brandi Carlile's 'Broken Horses' and Clark Humphrey's 'Loser' featured prominently. The SPL's press release humorously encourages Boston readers to explore Seattle's vibrant music scene without taking the title too personally.
Despite the initial rivalry, both libraries celebrated their participation in the Books Unbanned program, which provides digital access to young people across the U.S. The BPL acknowledged the friendly competition, emphasizing their shared commitment to supporting the freedom to read, even when divided by football.
