About the Common Reading Program
Sierra Nevada College Continues and Expands Common Reading Program for Fall 2012
Sierra Nevada College continues the One Book, One Campus program begun in fall 2009, with all incoming Fall 2012 students being asked to read The Things They Carried by author Tim O'Brien. A fictional memoir filled with interconnected stories abou the Vietnamese conflict and the people involved. The volume is narrated by a character names "Tim O'Brien," whom the author states is not himself, although there are many similarities. The title, The Things They Carried, refers to the things a soldier takes into combat with him: not necessary all physical items, like weapons, but also intangibles such as fear, exhaustion, and memories. One reviewer concluded., "With TheThings They Carried, Mr. O'Brien has written a vital important book--a book that matters not only to the reader interested in Vietnam, but to anyone interested in the craft of writing as well."
Inspired by the popularity of book clubs, a growing number of college campuses are adopting common reading programs. The idea of a common reading selection rests on a simple idea: that reading the same book brings people together as a community by creating a common ground for discussion and intellectual growth. As Dr. Lynn Gillette, Sierra Nevada College President, explains, "For this program, our faculty select literature that reinforces our College’s core values of Sustainability, Liberal Arts, Entrepreneurial Thinking, and Professional Preparedness." Gillette goes on to note that SNC staff and faculty are encouraged to join the community of readers in order to provide a shared academic experience and to stimulate conversations across the campus. Copies of the book, available at the campus bookstore for purchase, will be provided to them free of charge.
From the National Endowment for the Humanities
The Things They Carried
Thanks to an LSTA Grant from the Nevada State Library and Archives, Sierra Nevada College proudly extends the common reading experience to the entire Incline Village/Crystal Bay community. Events have been planned with the public in mind and books will be available around the community for book groups and others who want to participate in this exciting opportunity!
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