In “A Lesson before Dying” by Ernest J. Gaines, the young black man Jefferson is condemned to die for murder. As he awaits the electric chair, he is visited by Grant, the local teacher at the plantation school. Grant’s mission is to spend time with Jefferson so that he might confront death with his head held high. In the process, Jefferson is cajoled into eating some of Miss Emma’s gumbo. In honor of this food that is made with love, Central Library hosts the “Great Gumbo Contest.” Contestants are invited to show off your gumbo making skills, and the public is invited to try out the entries. Rules for the contest can be found here. It’s all part of “The Big Read.” 201 E. Market St. 979-7151.