Novel Nurse Book Club Meeting

Description

JOIN US FOR A NOVEL NURSES BOOK CLUB MEETING

The Nebraska Nurses Association invites you to be part of our Novel Nurse Book Club—a meaningful, relaxed way to connect with fellow nurses while exploring stories that challenge, inspire, and spark thoughtful conversation. Every six weeks, we dive into a new book that touches on themes of health care, humanity, ethics, leadership, and the lived experiences of those who care for others. Whether you're an avid reader or just looking for something new to try, this is a welcoming space to learn, reflect, and share with colleagues across the state.

Join Us - Wednesday, May 19, 2027
7:00 to 8:30 pm (CST) on ZOOM

For ZOOM details, watch your email or login to the member portal and follow the Novel Nurses Book Club link at the top of the welcome section.

Our May Book: The Black Angels by Maria Smilios

What if some of the most important contributions in nursing history were nearly forgotten? The NNA Novel Nurse Book Club is excited to feature The Black Angels: The Untold Story of the Nurses Who Helped Cure Tuberculosis by Maria Smilios, a powerful work of narrative nonfiction that brings a remarkable and largely overlooked chapter of American nursing history to light. Set in New York City beginning in 1929, the book tells the story of Black nurses recruited from the segregated South to care for patients with tuberculosis at Sea View Hospital on Staten Island. Facing dangerous working conditions, severe staffing shortages, and pervasive racial discrimination, these courageous women dedicated themselves to caring for some of the city's most vulnerable patients. Their work contributed to advances in tuberculosis treatment and the desegregation of the hospital system, yet their names and achievements were largely erased from history. Through extensive research and compelling storytelling, Smilios restores these nurses to their rightful place in the story of American medicine.

Why This Book Resonates With Nurses

For nurses, The Black Angels is more than a history lesson—it is a tribute to the courage, compassion, expertise, and perseverance that define the nursing profession. The experiences of these women highlight the essential role nurses play in advancing patient care, contributing to medical breakthroughs, and advocating for vulnerable populations, often under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. Their story also challenges us to confront the effects of racism and inequity in healthcare and to recognize whose contributions have been overlooked or forgotten. As we reflect on how far nursing has come, this book invites us to consider the work that remains and the importance of ensuring that every nurse's knowledge, voice, and contributions are valued. Most importantly, it reminds us that the impact of nursing extends far beyond individual patient encounters—it can change the course of medicine and history.

A Story Worth Reading and Remembering

The Black Angels offers an opportunity to celebrate the nurses who came before us while reflecting on the legacy we continue to build today. Their dedication in the face of discrimination, professional barriers, and a deadly disease is both humbling and inspiring. Whether you are passionate about nursing history, public health, health equity, or the untold stories of extraordinary women, this book offers plenty to consider and discuss. Join fellow nurses as we explore the lives and lasting contributions of the Black Angels and reflect on how their legacy continues to shape our profession.

Join the Discussion on May 19, 2027

Mark your calendars for May 19, 2027, from 7:00–8:30 p.m. CST for a meaningful discussion of The Black Angels. Whether you are a returning member of the NNA Novel Nurse Book Club or joining us for the first time, we welcome you to connect with fellow nurses through a shared love of reading, learning, and conversation. Pick up a copy of the book, bring your reflections and questions, and join us as we honor the nurses whose extraordinary contributions deserve to be remembered. We look forward to reading and connecting with you!

Available on for purchase on Amazon! Click here to order!

Questions? Contact: director@nebraskanurses.org