The kick-off event for Spokane's Big Read will take place at the Spokane City Hall Chambers on Friday (March 4) from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. -- and organizers will be handing out free copies of "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien.

This won't be the only place to get a free copy of this book. Book Crossing is doing a "read and release" program in ensuing weeks, in which copies of the book will be left around town for people to pick up and read. 

The idea is to get as many people as possible to read this epic novel about the Vietnam War and its consequences. More than a month of events will culminate in O'Brien's appearance at Get Lit! on April 16.

Friday's kickoff event will also include readings by a number of veterans: Gary Duvall, David Baird, Suzanne Williams and others.

At the same time, you should check out the opening reception of the related art exhibit at the Chase Gallery, titled  "Telling the American Story: History, Memory, Place, Story, Picture, Space." The gallery is also at City Hall, 808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.

Both the Big Read kickoff and the gallery opening are free.

(Photo courtesy of Get Lit!)

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