In a world where stories have the power to unite, the Big Read program of 2024 proved to be a vibrant celebration of literature and community, inspiring thousands across our region. During October and November 2024, our Big Read program has been nothing short of inspiring. With 57 Big Read events, 35 Little Read programs, …
Continue reading “Big Read by the Numbers: A Celebration of Stories and Community”
Looking for a good read over the holiday season? If you are wanting to extend the Christmas season a bit more, try reading one of these stories! Short Stories: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens (1843) It would be impossible to start this list with any other story but “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. …
One of the signs of a great classic is if it has lasting importance and impacts. One of the ways we can see The Great Gatsby taking on new meanings 100 years later is through different art forms. We have already talked a bit on this blog about how music is important to The Great …
Continue reading “From Don Henley to Taylor Swift: Songs That Reference The Great Gatsby”
In the last 100 years, The Great Gatsby has shot up to be one of the most popular books taught in high school English classrooms. Yet time and time again it is used in the same way, discussing symbolism of the green light and pursuit of the past. While this book is a great gateway …
Continue reading “Bringing the Themes in The Great Gatsby to Life”
The Great Gatsby is a well-known classic that offers a view into things like ambition, identity, disillusionment, and the American Dream. While it has become a staple in many high school classes, some students have trouble connecting with all the “rich white people problems” that make up much of the plot. One way to bring …
By Arayah WeidenNothing is better for a book lover than getting a gift based on a classic novel. Every book lover dreams of having a nook filled with their favorite novels, themed decorations, and cozy chairs. Gifting a book lover any gift that is literature, classic, or new novel themed is bound to create just …
Continue reading “The Perfect Present for a Book Lover: The Great Gatsby Themed Gifts”
The Big Read Lakeshore focuses on bringing communities together over literature, but we also go beyond Ottawa, Allegan, and Muskegon counties. This past weekend, part of our community was able to share our ideas with teachers and leaders from all over the country through the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). Our team was …
Continue reading “The Big Read Lakeshore Heads to NCTE in Boston”
By Maggie Hartman The best way to experience a beautiful children’s book (like Dreamers) is with actual children. This past week, 800 local elementary students came to an event hosted by The Big Read Lakeshore that included a presentation by StrikeTime Dance Company and a talk by the author of the Little Read book Dreamers, …
Continue reading “Event Recaps: Author Visit with Yuyi Morales”
This year, our book selections are all about exploring the American Dream and how it looks different for people across the United States. The American Dream is often described as the idea that anyone, regardless of background, can achieve a better life through hard work and determination. However, how attainable this dream feels depends on …
By Alex Goodwin Attention all amateur mixologists! If you’re someone who likes sweet little drinks (perhaps with a kick), look no further. Recently, Herrick Library North Branch in Holland hosted a fun event that not only talked about the history of mixology, but offered the opportunity to taste non-alcoholic versions of popular 1920s drinks. Two …
