Big Read 2016 Pays Tribute to "True Grit"
Friday kicks off one of our liveliest annual events: the Big Read. April promises to be a hoot – and maybe a “Yee-haw,” too – as we encourage the community to read “True Grit” by Charles Portis and sample a roundup of Western-themed entertainment for all ages.
“True Grit” is set in the late 19th century and follows 14-year-old Mattie Ross, who leaves her Arkansas home in search of her father’s killer. She pairs up with the help of a man with “true grit,” federal marshal Rooster Cogburn, and adventure ensues.
You can get the book from the library, listen to the audiobook or watch the DVD; or download the e-book from thelibrary.org/digital.
More than 30 events in April feature art exhibits, cowboy poets and singers, storytellers, book discussions, children’s and family activities. Our featured speaker is John Erickson of the “Hank the Cowdog” series, at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 21, to the Springfield Art Museum. Save the date and bring the kids for “Hank the Cowdog in Concert.”
You can see a full schedule of events in Bookends, or at thelibrary.org/bigread. Here’s what’s coming soon:
- On Friday, April 1, 5-7:30 p.m., Waverly House Gifts & Gallery showcases a True Grit Juried Art Show with works inspired by the book and a reception. The display will continue through May 21 at 2013 S. Waverly Ave.
- Also Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Fox Theatre on the Square, enjoy Stories of the West (and music) by Marideth Sisco and Bo Brown, both of Blackberry Winter fame.
- At 8 p.m. that same night at the Park Central Branch Library, acclaimed Western oil painter Andy Thomas will talk about his work and technique for bringing history to life on canvas. A Horse and Western Art exhibit by Jennifer Leeper also opens that night.
- On April 7 at 7 p.m. in the Library Center auditorium, author Jay Jennings, a Charles Portis scholar and friend, promises a lively discussion of Portis’ humor and drama captured in “Escape Velocity: A Charles Portis Miscellany.”
Find this article at http://thelibrary.org/blogs/article.cfm?aid=4284&lid=63