Join advanced grief recovery method specialist, writer, and Wordcrafter Jo Bartlett to talk about the many ways we experience loss and the shapes those experiences take.

Shelton McMurphey Johnson House and Wordcrafters Partner for Community Reading Events
The Big Read broadens our understanding of our world, our neighbors, and ourselves through the power of shared reading experiences

EUGENE, Ore. – Shelton McMurphey Johnson House and Wordcrafters in Eugene are partnering on a community book reading event, The Big Read, supported by a grant from the National Endowment of the Arts.

From November 2023 to March 2024, both organizations will host meetings and workshops throughout Eugene and Springfield to facilitate reading, talking about, and creating art around Roz Chast’s graphic novel memoir, Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? Eugene/Springfield is one of 62 communities nationwide participating in the 2023-2024 NEA Big Read.

Chast’s memoir perfectly blends wit and solemnity as she describes her struggle to take care of her aging parents, who would very much prefer not to discuss the subject of anything relating to mortality.

The Big Read project is a national effort funded by the National Endowment of the Arts which seeks to bolster community connections and inspire meaningful conversations through community reading events focused on books from authors of many different backgrounds and genres. The Lane County Big Read event is perfect for families, friends, and bookworms from all walks of life!

Events include November’s kick-off event, book and panel discussions, an author talk, and workshops for adults and youth.

At this book discussion event, advanced grief recovery method specialist, writer, and Wordcrafter Jo Bartlett will host a discussion on the many ways we experience loss and the shapes those experiences take.

Date and time:
Tuesday, February 27, 5-7 PM

Location:
Springfield Public Library, 225 5th St. Ste. 301, Springfield, OR 97477

Price:
Free