August Challenge: Stories From Yesteryear

Explore Stories From Yesteryear with the North Little Rock Public Library System Challenge

The North Little Rock Public Library System continues its 2026 Digging Up the Past Challenge with August's theme: Stories From Yesteryear.

This month, we invite readers and viewers to explore the classics, stories that have endured across generations because they speak to something timeless in the human experience. Whether you choose ancient epic poetry, golden age mystery, or beloved children's literature, August's challenge is an opportunity to (re)discover the works that started it all. Books and films both count toward the challenge.

What Is the NLRPLS 2026 Challenge?

The NLRPLS 2026 Challenge is a year-long program encouraging the community to explore a new theme each month through books and movies. Inspired by this year's overarching theme, Digging Up the Past, the challenge highlights stories that uncover history, explore hidden stories, and connect readers to meaningful narratives.

You can view the full list of 2026 challenge themes here: 👉 https://www.nlrlibrary.org/blogs/nlrpls-blog/2026-reading-challenge

Throughout the month, NLRPLS staff will share curated recommendations to help you find the perfect book or film.

How to Participate

Read a book or watch a film that fits the theme Stories From Yesteryear. Then submit your entry form either in person at your favorite NLRPLS location or online at: https://www.cognitoforms.com/NLRlibrary1/ReadingChallenge

Participants may submit one entry per person, per month.

Monthly Prize and Grand Prize

Each month, one lucky participant will win a $50 gift card generously donated by Skinny J's. At the end of 2026, all monthly entries will be entered into a grand prize drawing to win an e-reader. The more months you participate, the more chances you have to win.

August Recommendations: Stories From Yesteryear

Looking for a place to start? Here are staff-selected classics that have captivated readers across generations. You can also find additional themed displays and recommendations in person at Laman Library and Argenta Library throughout the month.

The Odyssey by Homer, translated by Peter Green
One of the oldest and greatest stories ever told, following the hero Odysseus on his long and treacherous journey home after the fall of Troy. If you caught Christopher Nolan's recent film inspired by Emily Wilson's celebrated translation, you'll find our Peter Green translation a rich and rewarding companion. A different voice, the same timeless voyage. Available at Laman Library.

Poems of Rainer Maria Rilke by Rainer Maria Rilke
A collection of verse from one of the most beloved poets of the modern era, whose words on solitude, beauty, grief, and transformation have been quoted, underlined, and returned to by readers for over a century. Available on Libby as an ebook and audiobook.

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
The best-selling mystery novel of all time, in which ten strangers are lured to a remote island and begin to disappear one by one. Taut, ingenious, and utterly unputdownable. Christie at her very best. Available as an audiobook at Laman Library and on Libby.

Passing by Nella Larsen
A slim and shattering novella from the Harlem Renaissance exploring race, identity, and the perilous space between the life we perform and the life we long for. A masterwork that feels as urgent today as when it was published in 1929. Available at Laman Library.

Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne
The beloved classic that introduced the world to Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, and the Hundred Acre Wood. A gentle and wise story that has brought comfort and delight to readers of every age for a century. Available at Laman Library, on Libby, and on Hoopla.

Start Exploring

August's challenge is an invitation to go back, to the books that shaped literature, sparked imaginations, and proved that a great story never really gets old. Pick up a book, stream an audiobook, and don't forget to submit your entry for a chance to win.

Happy reading, happy watching, and happy exploring!