The Rippey Library hosted one of the 2022 Greene County Reads discussion groups on Friday, September 9 at 12:30. Persons attending came from Jefferson, Grand Junction, Perry, and Rippey. The group was welcomed by Rippey Library director, Cara McCoy. She in turn introduced Jan Scharingson, long time book discussion leader for Greene County. The All Iowa Reads book, “The Butterfly Effect” author, Rachel Mans McKenny, was traveling with Jan throughout Greene County. Libraries visited included Churdan, and Scranton.
The conversation was lively. The various characters from the fiction were examined. Greta, the voice of the book, was described by most present as “prickly.” The setting of the Butterfly House and the Reiman Gardens, and other businesses and entities within the Ames area resulted in feeling of familiarity. The participants also learned about the numerous changes and redirection author Rachel experienced prior to having the book published.
At the conclusion, a drawing for two free passes to the Reiman Garden and Butterfly House was won by Fran Teagarden.
Jefferson Library Director, Jane Millard, announced the Greene County Reads selection for 2022 is “The Lincoln Highway” a novel by Amor Towles. The discussion will be held November 3rd in the Paton, Grand Junction, and Jefferson libraries. Associated with that event will be Darcy Maulsby of Lake City, speaking about her recently published book about the Lincoln Highway. That event will be held Sunday, November 13 at 2:00 P.M. at the Grand Junction Community Center.
Jane remarked she believes this to be the 14th year of Greene County Reads, as first discussion leader was Lawrence Geisler, followed by Jan Scharingson who continues as the leader.
-Mary Weaver