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Research Guides

Common Read Resources : Home

Resources for the current University of Idaho Common Read book, as well as a record of past Common Read books

The Common Read is a program designed to engage the university and Moscow community, its students, staff, faculty and community members, in a unified intellectual activity. For first-year students it introduces them to academic expectations, respectful discourse, and community building. The Common Read is supported by the Judith M. Runstad Lecture Series, which sponsors a keynote address by the author of the Common Read, or someone closely associated with the book.

The Common Read book is available for purchase through the U of I VandalStore and for check out at the University of Idaho Library.

This Year's pick

The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green

The Anthropocene is the current geologic age, in which humans have profoundly reshaped the planet and its biodiversity. In this remarkable symphony of essays, bestselling author John Green reviews different facets of the human-centered planet on a five-star scale—from the QWERTY keyboard and sunsets to Canada geese and Penguins of Madagascar. Funny, complex, and rich with detail, the  reviews chart the contradictions of contemporary humanity.

John Green’s gift for storytelling shines throughout this masterful collection. The Anthropocene Reviewed is an open-hearted exploration of the paths we forge and an unironic celebration of falling in love with the world.

~ from Penguin Random House 

Author

photo of john greenJohn Green is the award-winning, #1 bestselling author of books including Looking for AlaskaThe Fault in Our Stars, and Turtles All the Way Down. His books have received many accolades, including a Printz Medal, a Printz Honor, and an Edgar Award. John has twice been a finalist for the LA Times Book Prize and was selected by TIME magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World. He is also the writer and host of the critically acclaimed podcast The Anthropocene Reviewed. With his brother, Hank, John has co-created many online video projects, including Vlogbrothers and the educational channel Crash Course. He lives with his family in Indianapolis, Indiana. You can visit John online at johngreenbooks.com.

~ text from Penguin Random House, photo from Facebook

Events

Teaching with the Common Read Brown Bag Series

The "Teaching with the Common Read Brown Bag Series" will cover topics related to integrating the Common Read into classes across disciplines. Collaborating with peers from different colleges, participants will leave the sessions with ideas for using the Common Read in their classes.

  • Monday, 9/9, 12:30-1:20 pm, Paul Joyce Faculty Lounge: Using the Common Read to create ice breaker activities
  • Monday, 10/14, 12:30-1:20 pm, Paul Joyce Faculty Lounge: Preparing students for the Common Read keynote
  • Monday, 11/18, 12:30-1:20 pm, Paul Joyce Faculty Lounge: Using the Common Read to teach research strategies
  • Monday, 12/2, 12:30-1:20 pm, Paul Joyce Faculty Lounge: Embedding the Common Read in your Spring 2025 classes