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About the Community Read
The Community Read, presented by Aspen Words and the Pitkin County Library, strives to celebrate literature, unite readers around a work of fiction, and ignite meaningful conversation on the vital social issues explored in each year’s Aspen Words Literary Prize-winning novel and those nominated.
Each year, after the Aspen Words Literary Prize is announced, Aspen Words and the Library team up to put these great stories into readers’ hands. Together, we distribute free copies of the winning book to community members, helping spark conversation, connection, and a shared love of literature.
Thank you for joining us at the Book Distribution Party
The Lit Lounge: 2026 Community Read Discussion Featuring A Moderated Conversation with Author Maria Reva
Join us for the 2026 Community Read Lit Lounge Book Club Discussion, featuring a conversation with Author Maria Reva moderated by Breeze Richardson from Aspen Public Radio
Wednesday, July 15 | 5:30 – 6:30 PM
Pitkin County Library (Free & open to all; no registration required)
Welcome to The Lit Lounge—a book club inspired by the thought-provoking novels championed by our local literary center, Aspen Words.
For our July meeting, we are diving into the 2026 Community Read and Aspen Words Literary Prize winner: Endling by Maria Reva. Join fellow literature lovers for an evening of great conversation.
We are thrilled to announce that author Maria Reva will be joining us live via Zoom for an exclusive, moderated conversation with APR’s Breeze Richardson. Don’t miss this chance to discuss her extraordinary novel directly with the author!
SAVE THE DATE
Aspen Words Literary Prize Book Distribution Party
Wednesday, June 3
Pitkin County Library, Dunaway Room
free & open to all
Registration coming soon!
Join us in celebrating the winning title of the 2026 Aspen Words Literary Prize! Swing by our community book distribution party at the Pitkin County Library to pick up a free copy of “Endling” by Maria Reva and enjoy complimentary refreshments and snacks.
Registration information coming soon!
SAVE THE DATE
Special Lit Lounge Book Club: Aspen Words Literary Prize Longlist Celebration
Tuesday, August 18
5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. @ Pitkin County Library, Dunaway Room
free & open to all
Join us for a special edition of The Lit Lounge as we celebrate the longlisted titles for the 2025 Aspen Words Literary Prize! This month, we’re spotlighting the incredible fiction that made it onto the longlist—books that illuminate vital social issues and showcase the transformative power of storytelling.
Rather than focusing on one book, we invite you to come ready to discuss any of the longlisted titles that spoke to you. Whether you’ve read one or several, this is an open, dynamic space to share insights, discover new reads, and connect with fellow literature lovers in the community.
Expect a festive atmosphere, light refreshments, and a few creative twists to mark the occasion. Let’s gather to celebrate these powerful stories—and each other.
More details to come!
