The Big Read is...

...an annual event that begins approximately in March and ends in May. Want to know more? Click here.

Would you like to suggest a title?

It’s time to start planning for The Big Read 2009 and we welcome your ideas! Please email your ideas to Jean Gaffney at email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Big Read 2008 was a great success!

More than 500 people met Funny in Farsi author Firoozeh Dumas during her visit her May 1 and 2. She was welcomed with big crowds at Meadowdale High School, St. Leonard’s Center, Books and Co. at the Greene and at the Dayton Masonic Center. Just as in her book, she entertained the audiences with warm and funny stories that gave insight into both America and Iran.

Humanitarian Awards 2008

We want to congulate the winners of The Big Read Humanatarian Awards for their inspiring work in the communty.

Dayton Council on World Affairs Executive Director William Vaugh - For his leadership in the organization’s continuing work to inspire and educate the communty on international issues and promote understanding of different views and cultures.

Beth Lerman with Military Families Against the War for her efforts helping the Iraqi refugees settling in the Dayton area. She helps them set up their homes and eases the difficult transition into a new society with her welcoming smile and ready assistance.

Ed Anderson for 20 years of teaching English to immigrants to America. Beyond the demanding task of instruction, he works to help them overcome barriers in their new community and shows them how to become successful in their new lives.

Sharon Underwood teaches English in the Fairborn schools but also advocates for immigrant families, ensureing that they find medical assistance and socieal serices they need. Additionally, she has taken up the cause of an improvished oprhanage in Nepal and is raising funds and awareness to help the children there.

Mary Adamo-Price started teaching English while she was living in Korea with her Air Force husband. Since returning to the Dayton area, she started teaching ESL at Kettering City Schools. She takes a personal interest in the families and beyond teaching the language, she teaches the culture and how to make the tough transition.