“The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness” is the book highlighted in Clallam County Reads 2019.
The North Olympic Library System — which oversees public libraries in Port Angeles, Sequim, Forks and Clallam Bay — plans free, educational events between Tuesday and Nov. 8 revolving around the book by Sy Montgomery.
This series of programs will culminate with presentations and book signings by Montgomery. These free author appearances are set for 6:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at Sequim Library, 630 N. Sequim Ave., and 6:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Port Angeles Library, 2210 S. Peabody St.
In addition, beginning Tuesday (and while supplies last), octopus-themed library cards will be available at all four libraries.
Clallam County Reads is “a community-wide initiative encouraging participants to engage in a common reading experience,” library representatives say.
“It is an inspiring program that boldly celebrates reading, encourages meaningful conversations and fosters a sense of community.”
Montgomery’s “The Soul of an Octopus” explores the emotional and physical world of the octopus — a complex, intelligent and spirited creature — and the connections it makes with humans.
A naturalist, documentary scriptwriter and author of more than 20 books of nonfiction for adults and children, Montgomery’s other works include New York Times bestsellers “The Good Pig” and “How to be a Good Creature.”
She is the recipient of numerous honors, including lifetime achievement awards from the Humane Society and the New England Booksellers Association.
To participate, stop by any of the four North Olympic Peninsula Libraries and pick up a copy of “The Soul of an Octopus,” available in various formats, along with its accompanying reader’s guide.
A limited supply of free paperback copies to read and share (or keep) will be available at all four NOLS library branches beginning Tuesday.
A schedule of book discussions, art exhibits, live music, special storytimes and other free events can be found in a reader’s guide (available at any NOLS location), at www.nols.org/CCR or by calling a local library.
Clallam County Reads events and materials, including over 600 paperback copies of the book, are funded by the Friends of Sequim Library, Port Angeles Friends of the Library, Friends of the Forks Library and Clallam Bay Friends of the Library.
Additional community organizations involved in the planning and support of Clallam County Reads include Feiro Marine Life Center, Olympic Coast Marine Sanctuary, Olympic Peninsula Audubon Society, Cabled Fiber & Yarn, First Federal Bank, Barhop Brewing & Artisan Pizza, Park View Villas, Port Angeles Senior Center, Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Library and Mark’d Body Art.
For more information about Clallam County Reads, visit www.nols.org/CCR, email to discover@nols.org or call 360-417-8500.
