United We Read

The United We Read program is in its 12th year. It's hard to believe it's been 12 years since Cape Girardeau readers collectively read "A Painted House" by John Grisham.

The program, sponsored by Cape Girardeau Central High School, is designed to encourage both young and old readers to read and discuss the same book. This year's book is "A Dog's Purpose," a New York Times best-seller by W. Bruce Cameron that is said to be a touching and funny story.

"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.

As part of the program, Roberta Beach with Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary has been invited on Tuesday to talk with Central students about her work with dogs. Discussions of the book will be held at the Cape Girardeau Public Library on Feb. 19 and at the high school library on Feb. 28.

You can pick up copies of the book at the Cape Girardeau Public Library and join in the fun. What better way to connect with your community and reach across generational lines than through talk of a book?