Editor’s Note: The following article is a synopsis written by staff members and volunteers of the Cary Memorial Library in Houlton highlighting one of the suggested reading books, as determined by the staff.
Tennessee is a beautiful state, problems for sure within the population, and some great folks, as well. Probably there aren’t many people remembering what happened in 1960 to put the city of Clarksville, Tennessee on the map/news of the day.
“The Quickest Kid in Clarksville” is based on that story and its impact on our heroine. Authored by Pat Z. Miller and illustrated with quirky pictures by Frank Morrison, this well-constructed book is a heart-warming story of a poor girl who has horrible running shoes and just keeps on running. THEN a new girl comes along with brand new beautiful high tops just like an Olympic runner and challenges Alta to a fast race.
Well, you’d guess our girl Alta wins and then another race is on with the new girl in front! Despite the rivalry, there is a parade to go to and they surely do not want to miss it, especially since “their” Olympic star is the honoree.
For the first time in Clarksville, the colored population was invited to enjoy this celebration and other events along with the other people because the honoree would not attend if everyone was not welcomed.
Along with a happy ending for Alta and her friends, there is a section about the wonderful Olympian of 1960 who was also very poor, had polio, and an abundance of pizzaz and courage.
A heart-warming story for the little ones to hear and those a wee bit older to think about; and check out those illustrations! Another new book in the Cary Library’s Children’s section.
The Cary Memorial Library is open Mondays-Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 532-1302.
