Can I Read This?
A Banned Books Week Event
Thursday, October 9th at 6:00 PM
Isle of Books, 511 West Mendenhall, Bozeman, MT
Hosted by Isle of Books and co-sponsored by Country Bookshelf and the Bozeman Public Library
Join us for an evening of conversation, stories, and reflection as we celebrate Banned Books Week and the freedom to read. Authors, artists, and community voices will come together to explore the power of books, the challenges of censorship, and the importance of access to diverse stories.
This special gathering will feature readings, discussion, and community connection with:
Jamie Harrison
Jamie Harrison has lived in Montana for more than thirty-five years, working as a caterer, gardener, and editor alongside her writing. She is the author of seven novels, including the beloved Jules Clement mysteries—most recently The River View—and four earlier Blue Deer, Montana novels, all reissued in 2024. Her acclaimed standalones include The Center of Everything and The Widow Nash, the latter winner of the Reading the West Book Award and finalist for the High Plains Book Award. Jamie’s work is deeply rooted in place, weaving Montana’s landscapes and lives into stories both sharp and lyrical. In addition to these many accolades, Jamie’s enthusiasm for this event in previous years, even if unable to attend, encouraged and inspired our banned book week collective.
Allen Morris Jones
Allen Morris Jones, Montana’s new poet laureate, is a celebrated writer whose career spans novels, children’s books, poetry, and more than a hundred essays and stories—and he’s every bit as kind and genuine as he is talented! His debut novel, Last Year’s River, was chosen for Barnes & Noble’s Discover Great New Writers program, while A Bloom of Bones and his poetry collection Mumblecusser both earned Montana Book Award honors, with Mumblecusser also winning a High Plains Book Award. His children’s book Montana for Kids received a Spur Award from the Western Writers of America. A longtime editor and publisher, Allen now makes his home in Bozeman with his wife and son.
Russell Rowland
Russell Rowland is a fourth-generation Montanan and the critically acclaimed author of seven books including one of Montana’s best selling reflective nonfiction’s Fifty-Six Counties and the beloved Arbuckle trilogy. He is also a teacher, radio personality, and podcast host, bringing his voice to both the page and the airwaves. A true voice of Big Sky Country, Russell’s work reflects the stories and spirit of Montana. In addition to dedicating his life to Montana’s literary landscape, Russell is a remarkable friend who consistently shows his love and loyalty. He was also the very first person to hold an event with Isle of Books; a gift that continues to inspire us.
June Safford
June Safford taught me to love poetry, just like she educated and inspired so many Bozeman students. June grew up in a Swedish immigrant family in Brooklyn, where early visits to the Brooklyn Museum sparked a lifelong love of art. Though she pursued an academic path, she never left her passion behind—developing her skills in drawing, painting, poetry and watercolor through personal dedication, workshops, and mentorships, including time with artist Diana Tremaine in Bozeman. Alongside ranching, raising four children, teaching English, and hosting exchange students, June always returned to her art. Inspired by Montana’s landscapes and life, she continues to create, finding in art a steady and vital force throughout her years.
Queer Bozeman
Queer Bozeman is a community organization dedicated to connecting, strengthening, and advancing the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in the Gallatin Valley. Founded in 2022 by Sara Freedwoman and Chris Coburn, the group has quickly become a central hub for queer life in Bozeman—hosting events, fostering connections, and partnering with other organizations to build belonging and resilience. Guided by a vision of a world where queer and trans people can live authentically, Queer Bozeman works to celebrate diversity, challenge oppression, and create a thriving, welcoming space for all.
Can I Read This Final Poster 2025This Banned Books Week, join us to honor the stories that challenge, inspire, and affirm the right to read freely.
