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Nelson Reads — Compiling a list of top titles

Everyone loves diving into a great book. But what if the stack of waiting novels has diminished and book club is on hiatus.
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Joan Exley (left) from Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy and Joanne Harris of the Nelson Public Library are all smiles over good reads. The 2014 version of Nelson Reads is currently taking book nominations.

Everyone loves diving into a great book. But what if the stack of waiting novels has diminished and book club is on hiatus. Inspiration isn’t matching aspiration.

Well, look no further than an effort that aims to put a list of good books made by Nelson’s avid readers in the hands of Nelson’s avid readers.

In its third year, Nelson Reads is looking for nominations for top books that Heritage City residents think everyone should read.

A list of great reads comes in handy for that “drought time” when inspiration to read is lacking direction, said Nelson Public Library’s Joanne Harris.

“Some people like to do all the research to find that perfect book to read. Others just want to be told, ‘read this,’” she said.

Nomination forms are available in the Nelson Star and there are four categories in which people can suggest a good read: children’s book, young adult book, adult fiction and adult non-fiction. Nominations should include a brief description about why the book was enjoyed and fit to share.

“This is all about sharing your favourites,” said Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy’s Joan Exley.

If past lists are any indication, Nelson’s tastes in literature range from the obscure to best selling books. Sharing a beloved book means a shared understanding as well which creates bonds over the written word.

“There is something about the common shared experience of diving into a good book,” said Exley.

Harris said it’s gratifying to see the exercise well received in past years as people enter the library list in hand. Chosen books are also put on display should the library have them in the stacks.

Nelson Reads is also open to school classes that want to share. Classes are asked to share five books they think are good reads. This allows for a thoughtful group effort that encourages discussion.

Nelson Reads is sponsored by CBAL, Nelson Public Library, Nelson Star, and Otter Books.

The deadline for entries is February 28 and they can be returned to The Learning Place (lower level of City Hall), Nelson Public Library, the Star, Otter Books or by email to jexley@cbal.org.

There will be a draw for a bag of books for one lucky entrant in each category — an added bonus to sharing a wealth of knowledge about great books. Once compiled, the list will be on display at locations where entries can be submitted. Happy reading.