Lafayette Reads Together: Finding Gobi

Lafayette Reads Together, a community read that involves the Lafayette Public Library, the Lafayette Parish School System and many other local organizations, chose “Finding Gobi” by Dion Leonard as the 2019 pick. The event begins Monday, Jan. 14, and free copies of the book are available at library branches throughout Lafayette.

Here's the book description: 

In 2016, Dion Leonard, a seasoned ultramarathon runner, unexpectedly stumbled across a little stray dog while competing in a grueling 155-mile race across the Gobi Desert. The lovable pup, who earned the name "Gobi," proved that what she lacked in size, she more than made up for in heart, as she went step for step with Dion over the treacherous Tian Shan Mountains, managing to keep pace with him for nearly 80 miles.

As Dion witnessed the incredible determination of this small animal, he felt something change within himself. In the past he had always focused on winning and being the best, but his goal now was simply to make sure that his new friend was safe, nourished and hydrated. Although Dion did not finish first, he felt he had won something far greater and promised to bring Gobi back to the UK for good to become a new addition to his family. This was the start of a journey neither of them would ever forget with a roller coaster ride of drama, grief, heartbreak, joy and love that changed their lives forever.

Here are some of the events scheduled for this year at the Lafayette Library:

An Evening with Dion Leonard

Author Dion Leonard will talk about his journey in “Finding Gobi” while running an ultramarathon in the Gobi Desert. Along the way, he discovered many things about himself and China. For ages 9 and up, book signing to follow. Tuesday, Jan. 29, 6:15 – 7:30 pm, Main Library. (337) 261-5787.

Talk to a Dog Expert! 

Join dog expert Ally Lockin from Zendog Training and her dog to learn about canine body language, how to greet a dog properly, and much more! All Ages. Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2–3 pm, South Regional Library, (337) 981-1028.

Finding Gobi: Book Discussion 

Take part in a discussion of “Finding Gobi” with special guest Christine Duay, LPSS Director of Early Childhood. She will bring along the public schools’ service dog, Willow. For Ages 14 and up. Monday, Feb. 11, 6:30 – 7:30 pm, Main Library and Monday, Feb. 18, 6:30 – 7:30 pm, South Regional Library.

And there’s lots more! Visit the Lafayette Public Library website for more information.

Louisiana Book News is written by award-winning author Chere Dastugue Coen, who writes Louisiana romances and mysteries under the pen name of Cherie Claire. Her first book in each series is FREE to download as an ebook, including "Emilie," book one of The Cajun Series, "Ticket to Paradise," book one of The Cajun Embassy series and "A Ghost of a Chance," the first Viola Valentine mystery.