A Novel Idea: Oregon’s Largest Community Read Program Kicks Off in April

Now in its third decade, A Novel Idea continues to harness the power of books

to foster empathy and understanding among people throughout Deschutes County. This year, Ritu Mukerji’s debut novel Murder by Degrees and the youth selection, The Queen of Ocean Parkway by Sarvenaz Tash, promise to spark thought-provoking discussions and events, including in-person visits from the authors, that will deepen readers’ experiences.

“Over the years, we’ve explored and discussed dozens of books as part of A Novel Idea, yet one genre has been notably absent from our selections,” says Deschutes Public Library Programs Supervisor Liz Goodrich. “Deschutes County residents love a good mystery. It’s the perfect genre for exploring complex puzzles and following unpredictable character arcs.”

“These thrilling, hard-to-put-down stories keep our minds engaged until the final scene, when everything is revealed in those last, satisfying pages. We encourage you not only to read this year’s selections, but to take part in more than 45 programs that help build community—one book at a time,” says Goodrich.

A Novel Idea brings forward materials that enrich a wide audience—from devoted book lovers to those who may not yet consider books and reading essential to their lives. The concept behind A Novel Idea is simple: pick a great book, engage with community through thought-provoking and relevant programming, and wrap up the project with free and accessible author visits.

In 2002, A Novel Idea began with David James Duncan’s The River Why. From 400 participants that first year, the program has grown exponentially, with more than 10,000 people taking part in 2024. The Novel Idea series continues to attract new readers each year, offering something for all ages and interests.

Programming for A Novel Idea begins on April 2. During the weeks leading up to the main author event, readers can attend dynamic programs that tie into themes found in Murder by Degrees and The Queen of Ocean Parkway. A Novel Idea culminates with a free author event featuring Ritu Mukerji on Saturday, May 3, at Summit High School and a visit from the youth edition author, Sarvenaz Tash, on Saturday, April 26 at the Redmond Library.

All programs, including the authors’ presentations, are free of charge thanks to the support of the Deschutes Public Library Foundation and generous donors. Tickets are free, but required for Mukerji’s author event and are available at www.dplfoundation.org starting April 5.

This story is based on submitted information and has not been verified by our news team.

This article appears in The Source Weekly March 20, 2025.