United We Read aims to get Cape on same page

The 2013 edition of United We Read, a program urging people to read the same book during February, began Friday at Cape Girardeau Central High School.

"We're looking forward to getting students and also people in the community reading the book we've chosen," said Sara Kiplinger, librarian at the high school and program coordinator.

The book chosen for this year is "A Dog's Purpose" by W. Bruce Cameron.

"'A Dog's Purpose' is a touching and also funny story," Kiplinger said. "It's great for anyone who loves dogs."

The purpose of United We Read, now in its 12th year at Central, is to encourage young and old readers to read and discuss the same book. To that end, Kiplinger encourages students in the entire school district to read the book, and she also has reached out to the Saxony Village Retirement Community for their involvement.

"We think United We Read is a great way to promote book discussion and literacy within the community," she said.

In keeping with the theme of "A Dog's Purpose," a guest speaker from Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary, Roberta Beach, on Feb. 12 will talk to Central students about her work with dogs at the sanctuary. Book discussions will be at the Cape Girardeau Public Library on Feb. 19 and the Central High School library Feb. 28. People who have read the book are encouraged to help lead discussions or other activities that relate to the story.

Copies of "A Dog's Purpose" are available at the Cape Girardeau Public Library and at Barnes & Noble. Anyone interested in getting involved with United We Read may contact Kiplinger at 334-0644.

klewis@semissourian.com

388-3635

Pertinent address:

1000 S. Silver Springs Road, Cape Girardeau, Mo.