The Big Read is on the horizon

"We are so pleased to host a Big Read in Grand Forks,” said Wendy Wendt, director of the Grand Forks Public Library. “Tim O’Brien’s The Things They Carried is a fictionalized memoir of an infantry soldier as his platoon trudges through the jungles of Vietnam. We chose this book because of its potential appeal to those who may not have a habit of reading books for recreation. We also thought the strong armed forces presence in the greater Grand Forks area would afford many community members a story in which they could identify – veterans, active duty military, and their family members. In addition, people who have never been personally affected by military service gain some small insight into the sacrifices made for this country by reading this book.”

Grand Forks Big Read community partners include the Grand Force Air Force Base, the Grand Forks Public School District, Northland Community College, and UND, which will be bringing the author, Tim O’Brien to the community on Oct. 14 and 15. Other community participants include the arts community, the Myra Museum, Turtle River State Park and many others. (text from University Letter, University of North Dakota Faculty/Staff Newsletter online)