Each year, the Common Reading Program features a book to engage incoming first year students and the McMaster Community in conversations that are relevant to university and life after. Key elements of the program include a visit from the author, a human library event, and regular discussions about the book’s themes. This year’s pick was Zoe Whittall’s The Best Kind of People, a selection that was submitted and voted on by students who participated in the program.

The Common Reading Program is accepting submissions for next year’s featured book. The following criteria are considered when shortlisting the books:

• The author may have a strong connection to McMaster/Hamilton/ surrounding communities, or the content of the book is compelling and relevant in a particular year.
• The text will raise for discussion and reflection themes of personal/professional/ leadership development, community engagement and/or contemporary issues (e.g, Diversity, Inclusivity, Civility, Resiliency, Mental Health).
• The author is affordable and available to come to campus for the author visit/reading at the beginning of the academic year and again later in the term/year.
• The text will not have been read as part of the High School curriculum.
• The text will be of a reasonable length.
• The text crosses disciplines and will be engaging and inspirational for the greatest number of students.

To submit your recommendation, visit the website. Recommendations will be accepted until November 19, 2017.

To learn more about The Common Reading Program and events, visit the Student Success Centre’s website.