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Great Reads


Every year, a list of books representing the literary heritage of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands is distributed by the Library of Congress Center for the Book during the National Book Festival. Great Reads books may be written by authors from the state, take place in the state, or celebrate the state’s culture and heritage.

The National Book Festival, held annually in Washington, DC, celebrates books and reading and brings together bestselling authors and thousands of book fans for author talks, panel discussions, book signings and other activities. Great Reads books represent the literary landscape of the states and territories.

Until 2022, most Great Reads books selected were for children and young readers. In 2022 states were given the option to select two books: a Great Read for Youth, and a Great Read for Adults. The Arkansas Center for the Book at the Arkansas State Library selects the Great Reads books to represent the state of Arkansas.

Full title lists from all states and territories are available for download from the Library of Congress.

The 2023 Arkansas Center for the Book Great Reads selections are:

  • 2023 Great Read for Youth: House Finds a Home by Katy Duffield and illustrated by Jen Corace
  • 2023 Great Read for Adults: US History in 15 Foods by Anna Zeide

For more information, contact: