The Big Read is making its fourth appearance in DeKalb. The event, hosted by the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St., began Friday.

The Big Read is a month-long initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts, and according to the DeKalb Public Library’s website, “is designed to bring literary reading back to the center of American life.”

The event’s first activity started at 7 p.m. Friday, where historical interpreter Michael Oakes acted out the life of Jack London, author of ‘The Call of the Wild.’

‘The Call of the Wild’ is the theme of this year’s Big Read.

“He’s a very polished performer,” said Bill Draper, a resident of Dekalb who attended

the performance.

Attendees were all given free copies of ‘The Call of the Wild’ at the event.

“We are handing out 10,000 free copies of the book throughout this month’s events,” said Katherine Keyes, the Public Relations Coordinator for DeKalb Public Library.

Keyes said The Big Read is accessible to all ages, and this year’s book was specifically chosen because it appeals to a wide age range.

“You see two-year-olds as well as people in their 80’s coming here,” she said.

The Big Read will have other activities that residents can partake in, such as a dog sled demonstration at Hopkins Park, 1403 Sycamore Road, geography presentations and live animal shows featuring wolves and coyotes.

Keyes said she was pleased with Friday night’s turnout.

“We are very proud of the effort we’ve brought forth,” Keyes said.