Community Reading

We begin with a book.

Every summer,  incoming students are encouraged to read a book in common that serves as the basis for several events when the term begins in September.

In preparation for that discussion, they are encouraged to read  the chosen book in anticipation of a formal discussion. We also hope that the book will stimulate conversation and questions throughout the fall; some courses will incorporate the book into the syllabus.

In early fall, we invite the author to campus to discuss the book with the MCLA community, as well as the public. The most recent Community Reading speaker was Sonia Nazario, author of "Enrique's Journey."

Below is a list of past Community Reading speakers:

• 2011- Soledad O'Brien, "The Next Big Story"

• 2010- Laura Ling and Lisa Ling, "Somewhere Inside:One Sister's Captivity in North Korea and the Other's Fight to Bring Her Home."

• 2009- Paul Rusesabagina, "An Ordinary Man: An Autobiography"

• 2008- James McBride, "The Color of Water: A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother"

• 2007- Karen Shepard, "Don't I Know You"

• 2006- Elizabeth Royte, "Garbage Land: On the Secret Trail of Trash"

• 2005- Tracy Kidder, "Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul "

• 2004- Sarah Erdman, "Nine Hills to Nambonkaha: Two Years in the Heart of an African Village"