Big Read Lakeshore explores identity, the American dream in this year’s book selections

This fall, the Big Read Lakeshore invites West Michigan readers to dive into stories that challenge societal norms, explore identity, and question the American dream. 

Organized by Hope College, this year’s program will run from Oct. 28 through November and will feature a blend of classic and contemporary works, including F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” Gene Luen Yang’s graphic novel “American Born Chinese,” and a selection of children’s books.

“‘The Great Gatsby’ is often referred to as ‘the great American novel,’” says Deb Van Duinen, founding director of the Big Read Lakeshore and professor of education at Hope College. “We’re excited for our Lakeshore readers to explore this book and consider what makes it a classic. How do its themes speak to us today?”

Van Duinen says this year’s program is designed to provoke rich conversations. 

“We’ve paired ‘The Great Gatsby’ with other books that also delve into identity, the American dream, societal expectations, and belonging,” she says. “It’s our hope that reading this set of books will lead to deeper insights as we explore what it means to flourish as individuals, a Lakeshore community, and global citizens.”

This year’s lineup also includes “Mexikid: A Graphic Memoir,” by Pedro Martin, which will be featured in the Middle Read Lakeshore for upper elementary and junior high students.

“Dreamers,” by Yuyi Morales, a picture-book memoir, will be the focus of the Little Read Lakeshore for middle elementary readers. The youngest participants in the Mini Read will enjoy “Love: A Celebration of Mindfulness / El Amor: Una Celebración de la Conciencia Plena,” by Katie Wilson.

Includes 150 events

In addition to the diverse book selection, the Big Read Lakeshore will host more than 150 events across Ottawa, Allegan, and Muskegon counties. Highlights include an opening address on Oct. 28 featuring Hope College faculty members Jeanne Petit, professor of history, and Kristin VanEyk, assistant professor of English, who will provide historical and cultural context for “The Great Gatsby.”

The program will also feature author visits from Pedro Martin on Oct. 29-30 and Yuyi Morales on Nov. 13-14.

This year’s Big Read Lakeshore is supported by a $2,500 grant from Michigan Humanities, which will help fund Morales’s visit to Holland. Additionally, the Herrick District Library received a $20,000 grant from Michigan Humanities, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, to support the program.

Since its inception in 2014, the Big Read Lakeshore has grown significantly, expanding to include Muskegon in 2022 and engaging an estimated 20,000 participants annually. The initiative, which aims to bring the community together through shared reading experiences, was named Statewide Community Partner of the Year in 2021 by Michigan Humanities.

“The impact of these programs is far-reaching,” Van Duinen says. “We’re not just reading books; we’re building connections, fostering understanding, and encouraging conversations that matter.”

Book clubs and individual readers interested in participating can find discussion materials and additional information at bigreadlakeshore.com.