Do great books make great movies? What are the artistic challenges in moving literary works from page to screen? The State Theatre and Friends of The Modesto Library invite you to explore both artistic forms through an interactive, pre-film discussion moderated by Stella Beratlis, Modesto’s poet laureate.

In Brooklyn circa 1900, the Nolans manage to enjoy life on pennies despite great poverty and Papa’s alcoholism. We come to know these people well through big and little troubles: Aunt Sissy’s scandalous succession of “husbands;” the removal of the one tree visible from their tenement; and young Francie’s desire to transfer to a better school…if irresponsible Papa can get his act together.