MERIDIAN (AP) - The southwest Idaho city of Meridian has selected Anthony Doerr's nationally acclaimed novel as its first book in an inaugural reading project.

The Idaho Statesman reports that residents selected the Boise author's "All the Light We Cannot See" for Meridian Reads.

Meridian Mayor Tammy de Weerd is scheduled to kick off events Wednesday at city hall.

Doerr's novel alternates chapters about a blind French girl and a Nazi recruit during World War II. It has appeared on numerous lists as among the best novels of 2014, and was a finalist for the National Book Award.

Organizers say Meridian Reads is intended to encourage community members to read a thought-provoking book and participate in events and conversations about the book.

Events are planned throughout January and February.