June Reading Around the World Challenge: Countries That Start with I, J, K & L
The Reading Around the World Challenge from the North Little Rock Public Library System is your passport to a year of global stories. Each month, we highlight countries based on a letter or group of letters, and your challenge is simple: read a book or watch a movie set in, about, or by an author from one of that month’s featured countries.
Each month you participate, you can submit an entry form to be entered into a prize drawing for a gift card to a local restaurant. At the end of the year, all monthly entries go into a grand prize drawing for a Kindle Paperwhite e-reader.
Submit your entry in person at either Laman or Argenta Library, or online here:
👉 https://nlrlibrary.org/communityresources/readingchallenge
June’s Theme: Countries That Start with I, J, K & L
This month, we invite you to explore stories from and about countries beginning with the letters I, J, K, and L—think Iran, Ireland, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Lebanon, and beyond! Not sure where to begin? Here are five standout titles to inspire your journey:
🌙 Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao
Set in Japan
A richly atmospheric novel blending time, memory, and longing in a beautiful Japanese setting. This lyrical love story dives into questions of fate and the echoes of our choices.
🥣 Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
Set partially in Jamaica
A multigenerational family saga centered on a mysterious inheritance and a traditional Caribbean dessert. As secrets unfold, the novel takes readers from the UK to Jamaica and beyond.
🕌 The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
Set in Iran
Set in 1950s Tehran, this novel follows the friendship of two women as they navigate love, political upheaval, and the limitations placed on their ambitions. A powerful portrait of resilience and change.
🌱 Seeds of Change: Planting a Path to Peace by Jen Cullerton Johnson
About a Kenyan environmentalist
This inspiring picture book biography tells the story of Wangari Maathai, the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. A vibrant introduction to environmental activism and Kenyan history.
📖 Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney
Author from Ireland
A novel about friendship, love, and meaning from one of Ireland’s most acclaimed contemporary writers. Rooney’s sharp prose and emotionally complex characters make this a standout selection for literary fiction fans.
Ready to travel through books? Grab your library card, choose a title, and join us on the journey! 🌍📚