Real-world treasure hunt launches Aug. 8–9 across Cedar Rapids

A real-world treasure hunt inspired by the young adult novel "City of Five Seasons" opens the weekend of Aug. 8–9 in Cedar Rapids. The experience can only be joined by attending one of three free launch events, where author Reenie Eire will be present to meet readers and sign books.

The first event runs Saturday, Aug. 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Swamp Fox Books, 1375 7th Ave., Suite A, in Marion. A second launch follows the same day from 2 to 4 p.m. at The Christian Store, 4112 Center Point Road NE, in Cedar Rapids. The final kickoff takes place Sunday, Aug. 9, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Downtown Cedar Rapids Public Library, 450 Fifth Ave. SE.

Eire, who wrote the Christian young adult novel, said the goal has always been to create something people don't simply read — they experience. "This treasure hunt invites the entire community to step into the story, solve real puzzles, and see Cedar Rapids through new eyes," she said.

The novel follows a 12-year-old girl named Reenie Eire, blind since birth, who gains sight through an ancient pocketwatch and must find hidden Beacons across the city. Swamp Fox Books, an independent women-owned bookstore in Marion, and The Christian Store, a locally owned Christian bookstore serving the area since 2017, are hosting alongside the public library.

Admission is free at all three locations. No registration details were announced beyond showing up during the listed hours.