Book Club: Season of the Witch by David Talbot

Discuss David Talbot's Season of the Witch—One City One Book #11 (2025)

In a kaleidoscopic narrative, bestselling author David Talbot recounts the gripping story of San Francisco in the turbulent years between 1967 and 1982--and of the extraordinary men and women who led to the city's ultimate rebirth and triumph. Season of the Witch is the first book to fully capture the dark magic of San Francisco in this breathtaking period, when the city radically changed itself--and then revolutionized the world. The cool gray city of love was the epicenter of the 1960s cultural revolution. But by the early 1970s, San Francisco's ecstatic experiment came crashing down from its starry heights. The city was rocked by savage murder sprees, mysterious terror campaigns, political assassinations, street riots, and finally a terrifying sexual epidemic. No other city endured so many calamities in such a short time span.

Celebrate 20 years of great authors. Together, we read them all. This fall, SFPL will announce the 20th One City One Book selection, continuing a cherished tradition of bringing the community together through shared reading and discussion. To celebrate these powerful stories that have connected us over the years, we will host dedicated book clubs for each title throughout the summer—offering thoughtful conversations and a chance to reflect on two decades of collective reading. Pick up a commemorative bookmark at any SFPL location to track your progress on this literary journey.  Join us in celebrating 20 years of One City One Book, and stay tuned for the exciting reveal of this year’s selection.