August Reading Around the World Challenge: Countries That Start with N & O
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 feature countries based on a letter or group of letters. Your challenge is simple: read a book or watch a movie that is 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 included in a prize drawing for a gift card to a local restaurant or a voucher for classes at the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub. At the end of the year, all monthly entries will be entered into a grand prize drawing for a Kindle Paperwhite e-reader.
Entries can be submitted in person at either the Laman or Argenta Library locations, or online at:
https://nlrlibrary.org/communityresources/readingchallenge
August's Theme: Countries That Start with N and O
This month, the Reading Around the World Challenge takes you to Nepal, Nigeria, The Netherlands, New Zealand, and more. These stories highlight themes of resilience, identity, tradition, and the strength of human connection. If you are looking for your next read or watch, here are five recommendations to help you complete the August reading challenge.
We Measure The Earth With Our Bodies by Tsering Yangzom Lama
Author from Nepal · Set in Nepal
Spanning 50 years, this novel follows two Tibetan sisters displaced by China's invasion, navigating exile and survival across generations. It is a deeply moving story about family, culture, and the quest for belonging.
The Girl With The Louding Voice by Abi Daré
Author from Nigeria
This powerful debut novel tells the story of Adunni, a young Nigerian girl determined to escape poverty and oppression to find her “louding voice.” It is a celebration of resilience, education, and the power of self-determination.
The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden
Author from The Netherlands · Set in The Netherlands
A tense and atmospheric novel set in post-war Europe, this story explores secrets, desire, and morality through the lives of two women bound by their shared history. It is a haunting exploration of truth and survival.
Greta & Valdin by Rebecca K. Reilly
Author from New Zealand
This witty, heartfelt novel follows two queer Māori siblings as they navigate love, family, and chaos in contemporary Auckland. With sharp humor and vibrant storytelling, it offers a fresh and compelling voice from New Zealand literature.
Buried Beneath the Baobab Tree by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani
Author from Nigeria · Teen Fiction
Inspired by true events, this YA novel tells the story of a Nigerian girl kidnapped by Boko Haram, exploring friendship, faith, and hope in the face of unimaginable hardship. A powerful, emotional read for teens and adults alike.
How to Participate in the August Reading Challenge
Choose any book or film that fits this month’s theme and submit your entry by August 31. Each participation counts toward the monthly prize drawing for a local restaurant gift card or Innovation Hub class voucher, as well as the year-end Kindle Paperwhite giveaway.
Discover new authors, explore new cultures, and join us in celebrating the power of global storytelling this August.