The Maryland Humanities Council announced this afternoon that "Outcasts United" was selected for the 2010 One Maryland One Book community read. MHC executive director Phoebe Stein Davis said in a statement that the book “touches on issues critical to Marylanders such as immigration, community and diversity." I noted earlier today that the book -- about molding poor immigrants and refugees into a youth soccer team named the "Fugees" -- was my pick as well.

“I'm thrilled ... ,” author Warren St. John said in the statement. "'Outcasts United' is a story about the challenges and rewards of living in diverse communities, and shows the difference one person can make in the lives of many. It's a book that I hope will inspire debate and conversation about how to grapple with cultural changes that are occurring in communities across the country, including in Maryland. I look forward to being part of that conversation. Go Fugees!”

The 2010 OMOB program will start in the fall. We'll keep you posted about details.