The program’s purpose is for people of different backgrounds and experiences in the community to read the book(s) and discuss the ideas found within its pages. We hope to enrich lives, promote literacy, encourage understanding, and connect community through this shared reading experience.
Finding Dorothy by Elizabeth Letts tells the story of Maud Gage Baum, widow of Frank Baum, the author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. While working with actress Judy Garland on the film set of The Wizard of Oz movie in 1939, Maud looks back over her rebellious childhood and her marriage to Frank, when their neighbors became the inspiration for the beloved book he would eventually write.
Our Community Reads offers two additional books about journeys we take in search of ourselves and others. The Spanish selection (available in Spanish and English) is Into the Beautiful North by Luis Alberto Urrea. The Barnabus Project by Terry Fan is a picture book for all ages.
For Adults
Finding Dorothy by Elizabeth Letts
This historical fiction selection tells the story Maud Gage Baum, widow of author Frank Baum, and the making of The Wizard of Oz movie.
For Adult Spanish Speakers
Into the Beautiful North by Luis Alberto Urrea
A bestselling, award-winning author tells a story of Nayeli’s journey from Mexico to Illinois to find her father and men from her village.
For Kids
The Barnabus Project by Terry Fan
Half mouse, half elephant, Barnabus is kept hidden away but has his dreams and eventually goes on adventures with his friends—a group of misfit animals. Bring in a picture or drawing of your pets from June through July to the Main Library for our Barnabus Billboard!
A Conversation with
Elizabeth Letts
Author of Finding Dorothy
Hybrid - Main Library Meadows Community
Rooms and Virtual
Friday, June 24 | 2 pm
Best-selling author Elizabeth Letts will discuss and answer questions about her book Finding Dorothy.
Finding Dorothy Book
Discussion
Get acquainted Finding Dorothy with a relaxing afternoon book discussion.
Main Library
Thursday, July 14 | 2 pm
Virtual via Zoom
Tuesday, August 9 | 6:30 pm
Family Pet Project
Main Library Sally Lee Rooms
Friday, July 15 | 11 am – Noon, 2 – 3 pm
Friday, July 15 | 11 am – Noon, 2 – 3 pm
Best for families with children ages 3-10. Make your own “perfectly imperfect” pet just like Barnabus and his friends from The Barnabus Project.
Failed Projects
The Barnabus Project
South Elgin Branch
Saturday, July 23 | 1 – 2 pm
In a world built for Perfect Pets, Barnabus is a “Failed Project”, half mouse, half elephant. To honor Barnabus, families will make their own “Failed Pets.”
Breakout Barnabus:
The Great Escape!
Kids’ Escape Room
Main Library Sally Lee Rooms
Wednesday, 8/3 | 2 – 3 pm, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room
Tuesday, 8/23 | 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Grades 3-5. Help Barnabus and his imperfect pet pals escape from their underground laboratory in this fun escape room adventure.