Libraries encourage a dive into ‘Soul of an Octopus’

Clallam County readers are encouraged to share in a community reading experience this fall with the North Olympic Library System’s Clallam County Reads 2019, with a spotlight on “The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness,” by award–winning author Sy Montgomery.

A number of free, educational events are set between Oct. 1-Nov. 8, all revolving around Montgomery’s book.

Clallam County Reads is “a community-wide initiative encouraging participants to engage in a common reading experience,” library representatives say.

“It is an inspiring program that boldly celebrates reading, encourages meaningful conversations and fosters a sense of community.”

Montgomery’s “The Soul of an Octopus” explores the emotional and physical world of the octopus — A complex, intelligent and spirited creature — and the connections it makes with humans. A naturalist, documentary scriptwriter and author of more than 20 books of nonfiction for adults and children, Montgomery’s other works include New York Times bestsellers “The Good Pig” and “How to be a Good Creature.”

She is the recipient of numerous honors, including lifetime achievement awards from the Humane Society and the New England Booksellers Association.

Get involved

To participate, stop by any North Olympic Peninsula Library (NOLS) branch and pick up a copy of “The Soul of an Octopus,” available in various formats, along with its accompanying reader’s guide. A limited supply of free paperback copies to read and share (or keep) will be available at all four NOLS library branches beginning Tuesday, Oct 1.

Book discussions, art exhibits, live music, special storytimes, and other free events will also be happening in October and November. For a complete schedule, check the reader’s guide (available at any NOLS location), visit www.nols.org/CCR or call a local branch.

This series of programs at the library and in the community will culminate with presentations and book signings by Montgomery. These free author appearances are set for 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 7, at Sequim Library, 630 N. Sequim Ave., and 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, at the Port Angeles Library, 2210 S. Peabody St.

In addition, beginning October 1 (and while supplies last), octopus-themed library cards will be available at all NOLS branches.

About Clallam Reads

Clallam County Reads events and materials, including over 600 paperback copies of the book, are funded by the Friends of Sequim Library, Port Angeles Friends of the Library, Friends of the Forks Library and Clallam Bay Friends of the Library.

Additional community organizations involved in the planning and support of Clallam County Reads include: Feiro Marine Life Center, Olympic Coast Marine Sanctuary, Olympic Peninsula Audubon Society, Cabled Fiber & Yarn, First Federal Bank, Barhop Brewing & Artisan Pizza, Park View Villas, Port Angeles Senior Center, Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Library and Mark’d Body Art.

For more information about Clallam County Reads, visit www.nols.org/CCR, email to discover@nols.org or call 360-417-8500.