The Big Read - Wichita is over and thanks to the thousands across south-central Kansas who participated in book discussions and attended special events and exhibits from The Big Read - Wichita partners.

2009 marked the bicentennial of Poe's birth, and October was the 160th anniversary of his death. An important writer who helped shape the popular genres of detective, horror and science fiction, Poe's short works are also perfect for lapsed and reluctant readers looking for an unintimidating way to enter (or re-enter) the world of literature. Poe's works are also a part of our cultural literacy. Companion books were identified for readers in grades preK-8 so young readers could join in the fun.

Although The Big Read - Wichita is over for now, we hope your participation and interest will encourage to you make reading a habit all year long.

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Top left image credit: William Michael Harnett, Mortality and Immortality (1876). Oil on canvas, 22 1/4” x 27 1/4”, The Roland P. Murdock Collection, M58.45, used courtesy of the Wichita Art Museum. Ballet Wichita photographs courtesy of Samelight Team Photography.