2008 Summer Reading Events

First, I want to welcome you to St. Edward's University. You have picked a university known for its intellectual life, as well as its community spirit.

Each summer we ask incoming freshman to read a "common text"—that is, a book that each of you will have read in common—and we pick a book that will add to intellectual exploration of the year's theme. This year's theme is “Who is responsible for poverty? Who pays the price? Who reaps the rewards?” and the book selection is Jeannette Walls’ childhood memoir, The Glass Castle. Her family’s poverty resulted directly from choices her parents made, yet she presents her parents with affection and generosity. Despite childhood deprivations, Ms. Walls and her brothers graduated from college, and she is now an MSNBC commentator. Her story begins our exploration of the many causes and consequences of poverty, as well as the many ways resilient people deal with hardship.

I am very pleased to announce that Ms. Walls has agreed to visit St. Edward’s on October 7th to speak of her experiences. I hope that you will enjoy meeting the author of your summer reading. Prior to her visit, we will offer discussion opportunities where you, other students, and faculty may exchange views of this book and discuss how it confirms or challenges your ideas about poverty.

NOTE: How to read this book. As you read the common text, do not read as if you are reading a textbook. Instead, enjoy the story and try to identify with the author’s experiences. This book is written from her unique perspective and provides her interpretation of events and experiences. Think about the issues and conclusions that encouraged Ms. Walls to write this book. Make notes (perhaps in the margins) about ideas that are new to you or that cause you to think about your assumptions. Be prepared to write about the book in class and to participate in discussions, where you can hear how other people have responded to the book.

Reading Guide and Discussion Questions (spoiler alert)

1. Go to this link:  http://www.stedwardsbookstore.com/
2. Under "Select a Campus Term" choose FRESHMAN COMMON TEXT, then select GO.
3. In the box under "Select a Department." the option FSTY-FR STUDIES LIB ARTS will appear. Click on it.
4. In the box under "Select a Course," the option 1310 will appear. Click on it.
5. In the box under "Select a Section," the option ALL-STAFF will appear. Click on it.
6. Proceed as you would with a normal on-line order.
7. Call the St. Edward's Bookstore at 512-448-8575 if you have any questions.