Albany Reads

Albany Reads returns in January 2024 with Accountable, by Dashka Slater.

From the New York Times-bestselling author of The 57 Bus, Accountable is a propulsive and thought-provoking true story about the revelation of a racist social media account that changes everything for a group of high school students and begs the question: What does it mean to be held accountable for harm that takes place behind a screen?

When a student started a private Instagram account that used racist and sexist memes to make his friends laugh, he thought of it as “edgy” humor. Over time, the edge got sharper. Then a few other kids found out about the account. Pretty soon, everyone knew.

In the end, no one was laughing. And everyone was left asking: Where does accountability end for online speech that harms? And what does accountability even mean?

One Community, One Shared Book

After a hiatus, we’re excited to bring back this unifying program where the Albany community comes together to read the same book, share ideas, and engage in thought-provoking discussions and events inspired by themes in the book.

Please visit the Albany Library during open hours between November 15th and January 31st to pick up a complimentary copy of the book.

We hope you will join us!

Accountable Book Talk with Dashka Slater

in conversation with Aishatu Yusuf | January 24, 2024, 7-8pm.

Award-winning and New York Times-bestselling author Dashka Slater will be joined by Aishatu Yusuf, Vice President of Innovative Programs at Impact Justice for a conversation about Accountable. Following the conversation, there will be time for audience questions. We hope to see you there!

Event Information

Discussion Groups

Discussion groups build connections and provide space for open conversation. Join a discussion group organized by library staff or create your own in your community. You can download a copy of the discussion guide to get started.

Complimentary copies of Accountable are available at Albany Library.