The Big Read in Memphis
Rhodes College has received a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to host The Big Read in Memphis. Rhodes is one of 208 libraries, municipalities, and arts, culture, higher education, and science organizations to receive a grant to host The Big Read giving communities the opportunity to come together to read, discuss, and celebrate one of 23 selections from American and world literature. Rhodes will partner with the Memphis Public Library, Mid South Reads, and the Hollywood Community Center to provide programming for The Big Read.
The Big Read in Memphis will take place from March 17 - April 28, 2009 with A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines. We will have free copies of A Lesson Before Dyingto distribute to individuals and groups who wish to participate. We will also have supplemental materials provided by the NEA including bookmarks, reading guides, teacher guides and audio CDs.
Calendar of events
The Big Read Kick-Off
Tuesday, March 17, 2009, 5:30 p.m.
Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library
Join us at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library as actor and literacy advocate Darius Wallace helps Memphis kick off The Big Read. Participants are encouraged to pick up a free tote-bag and complimentary copy of Ernest Gaines′ A Lesson Before Dying and sign up for a community book discussion group.
Panel Discussion
Tuesday, March 31, 2009, 7:00 p.m.
Rhodes College, Barret Library, Lower Level Room 051
The focus of the event will be on providing multiple perspectives on the book: overall plot and themes; issues of religion and faith and issues of social justice. Panelists are Ms. Barbara J. Williams, (retired, secondary special education public school teacher), Dr. Marshall Boswell (Associate Professor English, Rhodes College), and Dr. Aram Goudsouzian (Assistant Professor of History, The University of Memphis). The facilitator is Dr. Luther Ivory (Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Rhodes College).
Live Video-conference with Ernest Gaines
Tuesday, April 28, 2009, 6:30 p.m.
Rhodes College, Barret Library, Lower Level Room 051
Ernest Gaines will hold a live video-conference for The Big Read where he will speak about his experiences with A Lesson Before Dying. A short question and answer session will conclude the event.
All events are free and open to the public.
Book Discussion Groups
Book discussion groups will be held are various times and locations in Memphis. Free copies of A Lesson Before Dying are available for community book groups while supplies last.
If you would like more information about The Big Read events, joining a book club, hosting a new book group, or volunteering to facilitate a book group, please contact Marci Hendrix, 901-843-3745.
The NEA presents The Big Read in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and in cooperation with Arts Midwest.
Rhodes College presents The Big Read in partnership with the Memphis Public Library, Mid South Reads, and the Hollywood Community Center.
More information about The Big Read can be found at http://www.neabigread.org/.
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