Reference Reviews

Lawrence Looks at Books

What Should I Read Next? : 70 University of Virginia professors recommend readings in history, politics, literature, math, science, technology, the arts and more, edited by Jessica R. Feldman and Robert Stilling. Charlottesville, VA: University of Virginia Press, 2008. 978–0–8139–2736–7; 2008–9234. $17.95

For this experimental reader’s guide for college students, professor of English Jessica Feldman asked 70 of her colleagues to select five books that they admire and to write a brief essay on how they connect to each other and the faculty member’s discipline. Interestingly, the college professors could not all follow instructions. Most chose the appointed number, but a few selected less, others more. Some, writing on Homer or Joyce, chose selections of only one work. Others, as one suspects they do in class, could not resist piling on a supplemental list for further reading. Still, all adhere to the basic idea of encouraging students to explore a subject at a depth beyond the coverage of the usual textbook. History professor Peter Onuf examines the original conceptualization of the United States by the founding fathers. Robert Davis uses both fiction and science to study the problem of global warming. Stephen Cushman explores the emergence of a significant national literature as the nation was preparing to divide itself in war. Judy DeLoache delves into child development and identity. All the essays convey a great enthusiasm for the subject matter and provide descriptions of the content and significance of each of the recommended readings. All told, more than 340 titles are recommended for students’ perusal. As with a course catalog, the student may avail themselves of only selected areas. However, whatever they choose, they are likely to find an entertaining course of study. This useful, but selective tour of the arts and sciences will prove valuable for college students and general readers.