As an elementary school librarian I believe books are magical. In stories we travel, explore, discover, empathize, understand, engage, and learn. Yesterday was all about the Jr. Iditarod and, as each page turned to reveal new adventures through the day, I thought of the books that engage young readers.  This epic event – a 150 mile dog sled race for 14-17 year olds – inspires stories that are as compelling as those favorites on the shelf.  Read a story of Jr. Iditarod and here is what you’ll find…

A grueling competition between sixteen teenagers; battling the elements and each other.

2023 Jr. Iditarod Mushers and Dick Mackey Representing Honorary Musher Lance Mackey (Photo: Juli Westrich)

A story of a group of new friends who quickly became like family.

Teacher on the Trail, Race Vet, and Race Medical get a lift from volunteers – by the end of the ride we were friends for life. (Photo Credit: J. Westrich)

A science-fiction tale set on a frozen planet, with ice roads and frozen lake travel.

Following the Jr. Iditarod trail across a frozen landscape. (Photo Credit: J. Westrich)

A friendship story of a kid and their dogs, working together toward a common goal.

A Jr. Iditarod musher and their team work as one. Photo Credit (J. Westrich)

A character piece set in a roadhouse, where everybody knows your name, even though you’ve just arrived.

Yentna Roadhouse – the halfway checkpoint of the Jr. Iditarod. Where the coffee is hot, the food is delicious, and everyone has a spot to sit and chat. (Photo Credit: J. Westrich)

This was a day of stories, each one filled with all the best elements; challenges, humor, friendship, kindness, struggle and success.  Tomorrow is another story just waiting to be told.

Library Learnings: Do you have avid readers who just can’t put down that perfect book?  Or reluctant readers who need Iditarod level competition to push them to read more?  Today’s question will lead you in the right direction.

QUESTION: What is the Iditarod Education digital program that supports and encourages students to read more, and more often? Click HERE to lean more!

ANSWER: Leif Anderson’s mom, Gwen Holdman, completed her Iditarod in 2001.  His father, Ken Anderson, raced his rookie run in 1999 and then completed every race from 2002-2017.