Books about Lincoln are next for Great Read 2013
January 17, 2013 11:42AM
Updated: February 19, 2013 1:37PM
Abraham Lincoln’s contributions to American history are too monumental for just one book.
So, as part of the 2013 Great Read community literacy program, area community members are encouraged to read any books about the 16th president and take part in numerous fun, historical and educational programs dedicated to Lincoln.
This year’s Great Read program is timely: 2013 is the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, one of Lincoln’s greatest achievements. The proclamation led to the passage of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1865, which abolished slavery.
Great Read 2013 has compiled a list of books about Lincoln appropriate for all age groups.
This year’s opening night will be at 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Joliet Barnes and Noble store, 2621 Plainfield Road (across from the Louis Joliet Mall).
Abraham Lincoln (played by Max Daniels) will host a “press conference” and address the state of the nation, with Mrs. Lincoln (Donna Daniels) also on hand. A Nook e-Reader will be given away to one attendee.
The Great Read Finale will be at 7 p.m. May 2 at the Fountaindale Public Library, 300 W. Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook.
The Daniels will again portray the Lincolns — this time as the Lincolns prepare to go to Ford’s Theatre where the president will be assassinated that evening.
Great Read 2013 also plans to host showings of Steven Spielberg’s award-winning movie “Lincoln” at several locations, pending release of the movie in late winter/early spring 2013.
Visit the website for a complete list of books, events and program information: www.psd202.org/greatread.
The Great Read program was created in 2004 to promote literacy, reading, conversation and community.
The Plainfield Public Library is a founding member of program, along with the Plainfield School District.
In 2008, new partners from Joliet and Bolingbrook joined the program. This year, The Great Read added the Shorewood-Troy Public Library and Joliet Junior College to its list of participants.
The Great Read is also supported by grants from the Plainfield Foundation for Excellence, the Friends of the Plainfield Public Library and additional funding from Enterprise Publications and participating member organizations.
