2024 marks the 100th anniversary of Ruth Suckow’s landmark novel “Country People”, and Drake Community Library is honored to celebrate the life and legacy of this distinguished author with a series of special events. Suckow, a proud alumna of Grinnell High School’s Class of 1910, made an indelible mark on American literature through her richly drawn portrayals of rural life, and her most famous novel, “Country People”, continues to captivate readers a century after its publication.
Ruth Suckow was an influential American author whose works continue to be studied and celebrated for their insight into rural life and the complexities of small-town communities. After graduating from Grinnell High School in 1910, she went on to study at Grinnell College, Boston’s Curry School of Expression, and the University of Denver, where she earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in English.
Over the course of her career, Suckow wrote 12 novels and numerous short stories, with “Country People” standing as her most enduring and influential work. Her literary achievements were recognized in 1978 with her induction into the Iowa Women’s Hall of Fame.
As part of the centenary celebration, Drake Community Library is offering a variety of programs to engage the community and highlight Suckow’s contributions to the literary world, including a book discussion, a traveling exhibit, and a special presentation.
Bookin’ It
Bookin’ It, book club, will kick off the celebration with a discussion of “Country People” on Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 7:00 pm. This beloved novel, first published in 1924, explores the life of a married couple living on a farm in rural Iowa. Its themes of community, isolation, and resilience offer a timeless portrayal of Iowa’s agricultural heartland. Readers are invited to join the conversation and reflect on how Suckow’s depiction of rural life resonates with contemporary readers.
Ruth Suckow Traveling Exhibit
From January 13, 2025, to February 9, 2025, the library will host the Ruth Suckow Traveling Exhibit, presented by the Ruth Suckow Memorial Association and supported by Humanities Iowa. This exhibit offers a deep dive into Suckow’s life and literary career, featuring archival materials, photographs, and insights into her writing process. It provides an excellent opportunity for community members to learn more about one of Iowa’s most beloved writers.
Friends Annual Meeting
On Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 6:00 pm at the Friends Annual Meeting, Dr. Michael Hustedde, a noted expert on Ruth Suckow and a faculty member at St. Ambrose University, will give a special presentation to accompany the exhibit. Dr. Hustedde will discuss the enduring relevance of Suckow’s work. His presentation “Ruth Suckow: A Part of Grinnell, A Part of Grinnell College” examines Suckow’s ties to Grinnell with a focus on her novella “A Part of the Institution” about a fictional Grinnell College. This event is free and open to the public.
Reader’s Theater of “A Great Mollie”
In addition to the exhibit and discussion, Drake Community Library will present a Reader’s Theater performance of Suckow’s short story “A Great Mollie” on Tuesday January 28, 2025 at 7 pm. Directed by Jenny Flinspach and performed by members of the GHS Thespian Troupe, this live performance will bring one of Suckow’s most poignant short stories to life, offering a unique and immersive way to experience her literary voice.
Learn more about Ruth Suckow’s Legacy
Drake Community Library is proud to celebrate Ruth Suckow’s enduring literary legacy with these special events. All events are free and open to the public, and we encourage everyone in the community to participate in the centenary celebrations of this important Iowa author. Additional information about Suckow’s life and work is available on the Local History website.