The Big Read 2022 is almost upon us!
What is the Big Read?
Every year, Herrick partners with Hope College to help put on the Big Read, a community reading program sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts. Libraries, schools, and other organizations all over West Michigan team up to put on events, programs, and author visits, all centered around one book! This year, that book is Circe by Madeline Miller!
What about the Little and Middle Reads?
The Little Read is a way for kids of all ages to also participate in our community reading program. In addition to choosing a book for adults, we select books for kids and teens that fit the Big Read's theme. 2022's Little Read is Last Stop on Market Street, Matt de la Peña's Newbury Award-winning picture book. Our Middle Read books focus on the hero's journey, both through the lens of mythology (like this graphic adaptation of The Odyssey) and "modern myths" represented by superheroes and sci-fi stories, including Miles Morales: Spider-Man and Zita the Spacegirl.
Is Herrick doing a Big Read book giveaway this year?
Yes! But due to high demand for books, we're going to be doing things a little differently this year. Stop by either library between October 7 and 14 to enter your name in a drawing for a free copy of Circe! Winners will be drawn and notified on October 15.
Are there going to be Big/Little Read Events at Herrick this year?
Absolutely! We're kicking things off on October 6 with the North Branch Story Project, a month-long story-writing project for kids where they'll write, workshop, and create their very own book to be added to the library's collection. We're also putting on mythology trivia (for adults and teens!), a dance theatre performance of the Little Read book, a Greek-themed murder mystery party (one at the Main Library and one at the North Branch), herbalism and ancient Greek language classes, plus an herby Take & Make craft to do at home.
For a full list of events taking place both at Herrick and elsewhere, check out the Big Read's calendar of events.
When can I meet the authors of this year's Big Read books?
Madeline Miller (Circe) will be giving a presentation at Hope College on Monday, November 14 at 7:00pm. Matt de la Pena (Last Stop on Market Street) will be presenting on Wednesday, November 9 at 7:00pm, also at Hope College. Ben Hatke (Zita the Spacegirl) will be joining our North Branch Story Project celebration on Thursday, November 17 at 6:30pm. All events are free and open to the public!
I've already read Circe! What should I read next?
Glad you asked. Check out this list of readalikes or ask a librarian to give you a book recommendation next time you're at the library.
