Willard Library is pleased to announce the 2026 Battle Creek Reads title, West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge. The author will speak at Binder Park Zoo on Thursday, May 7 at 6 p.m.
West With Giraffes is a charming historical fiction novel, inspired by true events, about a man named Woodrow Wilson Nickel who drives a pair of giraffes across the country to their new home at the San Diego Zoo. “Woody” encounters an interesting cast of characters along the way in this story of resilience, friendship, and the kindness of strangers during the Great Depression.
Adult Services Librarian Brenna LaForge described the book as “a really unusual story that’s easy to get lost in.” She continued, “The road trip across Depression-era America is engaging, and the mix of adventure, quiet humor, and relationships, especially the bond with the giraffes, gives the book a lot of heart without feeling heavy or overly dramatic.”
Battle Creek Reads is an annual event hosted by Willard Library in which the community is encouraged to read and discuss a single book. The book is selected based on several factors, including “librarian research, feedback from book clubs, and a committee of dedicated staff members who read and review titles,” explained LaForge. This is Battle Creek Reads’ 21st year. Last year’s selection, Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby VanPelt, saw record attendance of over 300 people enjoy the author’s talk.
Those interested in participating may stop by either library location for a free physical copy of the book. Copies in large print and CD Books are available as well for checkout. eBook copies will be distributed via Kindle to library guests who provide their email address at the downtown information desk. One copy per person, (eBook or physical book) while supplies last.
This year’s free author event will take place at the Binder Park Zoo. LaForge expressed her excitement, “This year’s event is going to be a bit different; because we wanted to really celebrate the story, we’ve partnered with Binder Park Zoo to host this program. We’re so excited to be able to hold our event at another beloved local institution.”
Guests will enter through the new gate near the carousel and ropes course beginning at 5:30 p.m. and will receive a wristband to secure their entry to the zoo. Entry is free, and there is no ticket or registration required. Please note, most of the animals will not be on exhibit during this time. “Although hosted at the zoo, this event is intended for adult readers. Zoo exhibits will not be open during the program, and the evening will center on author conversation rather than general zoo activities,” LaForge clarified.
Rutledge will be available to sign books after the event, and New Story Community books will be on hand selling extra copies as well as selected other titles.
Library programs are free and open to the public.
