Big Read Wichita

March 29-April 26, 2026

Big Read Wichita returns for 2026 with Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude, a collection of poems by Ross Gay.

A poet, educator, and community gardener, Ross Gay tends to joy as one would an orchard—from seedlings to harvest, through all seasons of growth. In Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude, Gay demonstrates the practice of gratitude while never losing sight of the loss that animates it. He draws readers in with flesh and fruit in poems that "feel bold and wild and weird" (American Poetry Review).

"Almost no one has the faith Gay seems to have in poetry's ability to tap grace from the happenings of his life..." (Paris Review).

Reading the book "feels like the first time you open the window in spring. That first chilly air. The sun on the sill" (Poetry Foundation).

"Whether you're feeling like you have a whole brass band of gratitude or if you're feeling like you only have a rusty horn, read this book" (National Book Critics Circle).

Events

We're developing a program of events, including a kickoff scheduled for April 4. Stay tuned for details.