Thurs. May 3

Sure, "A People's History of the United States" is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand history - as not written by the "winners." Howard Zinn's classic text has influenced many of us, as has the man himself. We're proud to call him a friend. And Zinn, though retired from teaching at Boston University, is anything but retiring. He speaks out of town frequently and he's here, at the Coolidge Corner Theatre Thursday May 3 at 6 p.m. with a little something to say. Zinn e-mails us: "Seven Stories Press is launching the publication of the 'Young People's History of the United States.' For many years parents and teachers have been asking that 'People's History' be adapted for kids below high school age - middle school, I guess, and finally we've done it. Rebecca Stefoff went over my book, shortened it, simplified some things (not too much), added illustrations and the result is an attractive two volume book which should be useful." Tickets are $2 and available at the Brookline Booksmith across the street from the theater.

290 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-734-2000 coolidge.org