Author making return to scene of stories

The Mississippi River region of Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois have been an inspiration to award-winning author Richard Peck over the years.

So when an invitation arrived to come to Cape Girardeau and discuss one of his books as part of a community reading program, Peck felt he owed the area a visit.

"I'm coming because Cape is the first community that I know of that has held a community read on my new book," Peck said in a phone interview from his New York City home. "Also, there's a debt I owe to the Midwest, to Mark Twain and the great river that has nurtured my writing."

Peck's young adult historical novel, "The River Between Us," was chosen as the 2005 United We Read book for Cape Girardeau.

He grew up in Decatur, Ill., and graduated from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Ill. "The River Between Us" is set in Grand Tower, Ill., which United We Read organizer Julia Jorgensen said is one reason she chose the book.

Peck has also written another book with a local setting. "London Holiday" is about three women from Cape Girardeau, though he changed the city's name in the book.

"I'm glad that people of all ages are reading. That's what I aim for," Peck said.

During his stay in Cape Girardeau, Peck will take part in three book discussions: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. sessions intended for high school students and a 7 p.m. session for adults. All will take place Feb. 9 in the Central High School library.

Jorgensen said she is scheduling other discussions throughout February, including one that is set for 7 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Cape Girardeau Public Library.

Peck was the first children's writer to receive a National Humanities Medal and has also been awarded a Newberry Medal and Newberry Honor. He has written 30 books.

Jorgensen said "The River Between Us" is available in local bookstores and at the public library. Anyone interested in leading a discussion can obtain group leader guides from Jorgensen.

"We've got plenty of books, and all of Cape Girardeau will be talking about 'The River Between Us,'" she said.

cclark@semissourian.com

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