After receiving nominations from across the state, the Nebraska Center for the Book board has announced the 2011 One Book, One Nebraska selection: “Local Wonders: Seasons in the Bohemian Alps” by Nebraska author Ted Kooser.
Although Kooser is one of America’s most distinguished poets, this is not a poetry book at all, but a kind of intimate travel guide to the place he calls home in the rolling hills of southeastern Nebraska, an area known as the Bohemian Alps. Kooser uses exquisite detail and humor in “Local Wonders” as he shares abiding wisdom in the concise Bohemian proverbs that are woven into his essays. Nothing is too big or too small for his attention. Like his poetry, Kooser’s prose brings to life the details of a rural American landscape.
Reading great literature encourages us to think about ourselves, our environment and our relationships. Talking about great literature with friends and family can add richness and depth to the reading experience. Each year, Nebraska communities come together through literature in community-wide reading programs to explore a classic work by one of Nebraska’s best-loved authors. The Oakland Public Library currently has a copy of “Local Wonders” and will assist patrons, book clubs and organizations requesting additional copies to participate in One Book One Nebraska.
One Book One Nebraska 2011 sponsors include the Nebraska Center for the Book, Nebraska Humanities Council, Nebraska Library Association, Nebraska Library Commission, and the University of Nebraska Press.
