Last year, OPL challenged patrons to read a book by a Nebraska author, and this year we’re putting a little twist on it, inviting you to dive deeper into the state itself by reading a book set in Nebraska.
Books for this challenge might be a little harder to suss out, but we’ve got you covered with a few recommendations and a list of ideas.
Classic Nebraska literature is an easy go-to for this challenge. Check out Willa Cather’s “O Pioneers!,” the start of her Great Plains trilogy set around the story of a Nebraska farm family and their struggle to save their land. Nebraska native Mari Sandoz also centered a good deal of her work on Nebraska. Try “Slogum House,” “Capital City,” or “Son of the Gamblin' Man.”
If you’re looking for a more modern take on a historical setting, try Libba Bray’s paranormal finale to her Diviners series, “King of Crows,” Theodore Wheeler’s “Kings of Broken Things,” or “The Blizzard Bride” by Susanne Dietze.
For a contemporary Nebraska setting, try Liz Kay’s “Monsters,” Matthew Norman’s “We’re All Damaged” or any of Rainbow Rowell’s Nebraska-set works, including “Fangirl” and “Eleanor & Park.”
For more ideas check out this list or request a custom reading list or book bundle tailored to your interests by OPL librarians.
Starting April 1, 2021, you may submit your completed reading log online or return a completed tracking sheet to any OPL branch to receive a pin and to be entered into a drawing for some fun literary-themed prizes! All completed tracking sheets or online challenge form entries must be received by December 31, 2021, to be entered into the prize drawing.
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