Vanished in Vermillion Selected as 2025 One Book Siouxland Title
Published on January 08, 2025
Siouxland Libraries announced Vanished in Vermillion: The Real Story of South Dakota’s Most Infamous Cold Case by Lou Raguse as the 2025 One Book Siouxland title. Every April, One Book Siouxland gathers Sioux Falls and Minnehaha County around a single title for discussion, events, and activities.
Vanished in Vermillion unravels a 50-year-old cold case in South Dakota. The story chronicles the 1971 disappearances of Pam Jackson and Sherri Miller, two 17-year-olds from Vermillion. Author Lou Raguse extensively covered the case for KELOLAND News from 2005 to 2008. The result of hundreds of interviews, Raguse’s book flips the script on typical investigation stories, revealing the intricate details of the mystery that has haunted South Dakota for half a century.
“We are excited to announce Vanished in Vermillion by Lou Raguse as the eighth selection for One Book Siouxland,” said Jodi Fick, Director of Siouxland Libraries. “This selection provides a unique opportunity for our community to engage with a compelling true crime story that happened in our state. We are honored to feature Lou Raguse’s book and invite the entire community to join us in this important conversation.”
The community can look forward to thoughtful conversations during activities and throughout the month of April at various branch locations.
“This year, One Book Siouxland events will delve into critical cold case issues, including a focus on murdered and missing Indigenous women in South Dakota. We will also explore the psychology of false memory and the influence of the Court of Public Opinion on criminal investigations, reporting, and the justice system,” said Kim Koblank, One Book Siouxland Coordinator. “We are collaborating with community members, podcasters, journalists, artists, speakers, and subject matter experts to engage in comprehensive discussions on these important themes.”
To check out the book or see the schedule of events and activities, go to siouxlandlib.org/one-book or visit a branch location.
ABOUT ONE BOOK SIOUXLAND Since 2016, One Book Siouxland has encouraged reading and dialogue through community-wide reading and discussion across its 13 libraries. A selection and advisory committee suggest titles based on public interest. Find more information about the 2025 One Book Siouxland title here.