As a way to promote literacy in the community, Big Sky Author Services (BSAS) is hosting an initiative that aims to find the best book penned by an Albertan author.
During a presentation to Airdrie City council at the regular June 8 meeting, Kim Cheel, with BSAS, said the Airdrie Reads initiative is a way to bring accessible art to people during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We can be together while remaining separate,” she said. “We can read the books, follow along, and listen to the champions defend why their chosen book should be the one crowned Airdrie Reads winner.”
According to BSAS’s website, Airdrie Reads combines passion for books with the drama of reality television. The organization’s website likened the event to a combination of The Bachelorette and literature.
Five Airdrie “champions” have pitched their selection of books written by Alberta authors to a group of panelists for an upcoming online show and debate, which will take place on social media during the week of July 19 to 23.
The winner will be provided an author profile in airdrielife magazine and the winning book will also be highlighted on the shelves of several local stores.
The five books chosen include Flying the Nest by Joy Norstrom, The Hill by Ali Bryan, Tomorrow by Merilyn Ruth Liddell, Watershed by Doreen Vanderstoop and In Veritas by C.J. Lavine. From now until the end of the month, Airdronians have the chance to read the chosen books to understand who may be crowned the winner.
The five Airdrie champions who will hash out which book should be the winner are Heather Spearman, Jordan Harris, Sarika Mehta, Kiersten Mohr and Daniel Nelles.
“This past year taught us about the importance of books as we all turned to story for escapism,” the site stated. “Books take us to faraway lands or propel us into the lives of heroes, astronauts, monsters and more. They educate, inspire and entertain.”
After the presentation, Coun. Tina Petrow said she is thankful the team holding the initiative has been such a great champion for literacy in the community.
“It’s great to thank you guys in public for all of the work you do,” she said.
Tammy Plunkett with BSAS said the initiative is a great way to stay connected and promote art.
“There is always more room for art,” she said, adding Airdrie Reads also aims to support local businesses.
“We wanted to partner with as many businesses as we possibly can to offer them a new way to get clients through their doors,” she said. “We are challenging and asking all Airdrie businesses to find a way to merge what they do with reading. We are trying to give back to businesses who have been effected by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
For more information on the Airdrie Reads initiative, visit bigskyauthorservices.com
Jordan Stricker, AirdrieToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @Jay_Strickz
