faq
What is it?
The Sealey Challenge is a community activity in which participants read a book of poetry each day during the month of August. Since 2023, Nicole Sealey has entrusted the University of Arizona’s Poetry Center with caring for this incredible month of reading poetry.
Why is it?
The Sealey Challenge connects poetry lovers through the sharing of book recommendations and reading experiences on social media.
What if I can’t read 31 books in 31 days?
That’s okay! While the challenge is to read a book every day in August, the real heart of the Sealey Challenge is about spending more time with poetry. There’s no wrong way to #SealeyChallenge.
How do I sign up?
There is no official sign up! Choose your 31 books, and when August rolls around — start reading!
How can I share my experience with others?
Connect with us on social media. Snap photos of your Sealey Challenge book stack, share your poetry likes and loves, and tag your posts with #SealeyChallenge to join the conversation! You’re warmly invited to follow us on Facebook, Twitter (X), and Instagram to stay in touch.
What books should I pick to read?
While the books you choose are up to you, The Sealey Challenge encourages reading books by marginalized poets. For ideas, check out our “start” page or browse blog posts from past participants.
Can I read chapbooks?
Absolutely! Chapbooks need audiences too.
I am a poet, can my work be featured in the challenge?
While we can’t promise to feature your book during the challenge, we’d be honored to receive it. Please send to: University of Arizona Poetry Center c/o The Sealey Challenge P.O.Box 210150 Tucson, AZ 85721.
Do you have any tips for participating in the challenge?
Here are some suggestions:
Select books that can be read in one day.
Reserve pockets of time for reading.
Embrace imperfection (perfection isn’t the point!).
Read chapbooks.
Read selections from poetry collecteds and selecteds!
Check out your library or libby for free books.
Listen to audiobooks + Voca, a living archive of recording poetry readings spanning 6 decades!
Plan a book swap.
Return to these books again & again.