The Southwest Voice

The Big Read is a program funded by the National Endowment for the Arts. Its goal is to promote literacy and the reading of classic literature in communities throughout the country.

The Bakersfield Museum of Art and many other community organizations are in the first stages of planning the events for Kern County's Big Read taking place January 15th through February 15th, 2009.

Our featured title is Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God. Although it was published after the Harlem Renaissance was on the wane, as a novel it echoes that era's search for genuine African American voices in literature. Hurston was also a standout figure in that era, known for her independence and powerful storytelling. Although she passed away in poverty and obscurity, her work is now being rediscovered and appreciated as never before.

Join us as we prepare for some outstanding upcoming events, including art exhibits, book clubs, concerts, panel discussions, and contests. Our featured book will be available soon from local booksellers and the Kern County Libraries. Keep checking back for updates!

The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and Arts Midwest.

User Name:TheBigRead2009KernCounty
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