It is official now. The 16th year of Wyoming County Reads begins in February. The Wyoming County Commissions have proclaimed it and the books and movies for Wyoming County Reads 2020 are both by acclaimed author Ian McEwan: “Atonement” and “On Chesil Beach.”

This is a collaboration of the Wyoming County Cultural Center and the Tunkhannock Public Library who join forces to encourage the reading of good books and the showing of good movies. Discussions are scheduled for Wednesdays at 7 p.m. on Feb. 5, 19 and March 4 at the Tunkhannock Library. P

opular discussion leader, Bill Chapla, will lead the way to understanding and appreciating both the books and the movies. We promise good coffee and the best cookies in town.

Movies are shown at the Dietrich: “Atonement” on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 1 and 7 p.m. and “On Chesil Beach” on Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 1 and 7 p.m. Everything is free, thanks to a grant from the Wyoming County Commissioners. All you have to do is borrow or download the books. All newcomers are welcomed.

February can be a dreary month, but with Wyoming County Reads there is the promise of mental stimulation and the enjoyment of community with readers. When I was a school librarian, my goal was to find a book for each young reader, a book that engaged each individual. What I knew is that, if each child read one book that hooked him or her, the quest would begin to find another. Reading is truly magical. A reader is never bored.

For the fifth year in a row, we have partnered with the Tunkhannock Area Intermediate Unit to bring Readers Meeting Writers to the students. This year famed author Susan Campbell Bartolletti spoke to 165 sixth-grade students and taught a writing workshop for 18 budding writers. Coinciding with their coverage of WW II and the Nazi Holocaust, students read her book “The Boy Who Dared,” followed by the chance to do some of their own writing. Every writer will tell you the importance of reading for building the skill of writing. Thank you M & T Bank for your grant to make this possible. It also would not have been possible without the organization of Sara Ergott, sixth-grade teacher.

February is a month to look forward to, not only for Wyoming County Reads, but also for the start of Winter Fest and three weeks of foreign and independent films. Opening Night on Friday, Feb. 21 should be on your calendar, a night of two films, popcorn, beer, wine or soda and a signature brownie dessert for just $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Then three weeks of films that will bring you new insight into the lives of others from near and far. The Opening Night movies are “Edie,” set in the Scottish Highlands, and “Parasite,” set in Korea. Where else can you see 22 films in 21 days – films that broaden your horizons?

February is also a month when we have the privilege of getting out on the trail – virtually, that is – with naturalist and hiker Jeff Mitchell. On Saturday, Feb. 8 at 11 a.m., Jeff will visually take us on the many trails that he has hiked in the last few years. Another date to put on your calendar!

So much to look forward to in February! What will bring you to the Dietrich? Check us out!

Young
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More than

the Movies

Margie Young

Reach the Abington Journal newsroom at 570-991-6405 or by email at news@theabingtonjournal.com.