About the KU Common Book Program

KU Common Book is a campuswide initiative to engage first-year students.

A key component of Bold Aspirations, the KU strategic plan, is investing in first-year intellectual experiences. As part of this emphasis, KU Common Book will generate opportunities for shared intellectual experiences that invite analysis, foster critical thinking, and reflect the type of reasoned discourse expected at a university.

First-year students will receive the common book at Orientation and be encouraged to read and discuss the book at activities and programs throughout the year. The Common Book was selected by a committee comprised of faculty, staff, and students from nominations generated by the KU campus. Although the program focuses on freshmen and transfer students, the steering committee invites participation from all students, as well as faculty and staff who wish to include the book in their classes and programs.

The program is coordinated by the Office of First-Year Experience and is governed by the KU Common Book Committee, comprised of faculty, staff, and students from across campus.

Program Goals

• Build community among faculty, staff, and students
• Create a shared academic experience for first-year students
• Encourage intellectual engagement through reading and discussion