What is The Big Read?

In short, the Big Read is all about communities reading the same book, then getting together to talk about it. The six-week reading event is sponsored by local libraries, bookstores, non-profit organizations, and the Dayton Daily News. A group of people from these organizations selects a list of possible titles each year. They not only look for a great read, but one that could spark discussion. Each fall, a vote on those titles at area libraries and on The Dayton Daily News website gives the public a chance to cast their ballot for the next Big Read book.

Cities across the country have their own community read events. Here in the Miami Valley, 2008 is the third year for the Big Read. "We are excited about this year’s selection. With the author’s cultural heritage, we have an opportunity to make the events festive and unique," said Mark Willis, Community Relations Manager for the Dayton Metro Library, one of the sponsoring organizations of the Big Read. "There are plans for lots of fun events and book discussions."

Look for an opportunity to vote for the following year’s Big Read selection each fall.