Liza's Summer Reading List
Hi everyone,
Liza here!
I had to take a little hiatus from blogging for a while (more on that, sometime) but wanted to share some of the books that I plan on reading this summer. I don't have any book groups going on, but would be happy to chat or discuss or hear your reflections/feedback about your experiences with these books!
It's no secret (because I've written about it) that I've spent most of my post-doctoral life catching up on television shows. I've watched The Walking Dead; Breaking Bad; and now I'm on to Grey's Anatomy. I didn't watch these shows at all during my 5 years in school, so, yes, I started on Season 1, Episode 1 for each of these. And, for this, I am proud. It takes a lot to binge watch THAT much television!
But, reading is something I love and never make enough time to do. I have listened to lots of books on Audible, but there is certainly something different about sitting on the front porch and reading a good book. So, here is my line up for the summer:
The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas
Why I'm reading this: People can't stop talking about this book. I wanted to read it because it was important for me to hear the voice of a young, Black, teenage girl growing up in the age of today's violence. I'm about 3/4 of the way through and can see exactly why. It's written honestly and clearly, and I can feel every roller coaster of emotion coming through the pages. If you work with young people, this is particularly an important read. And, if not, read it anyway.
Hunger by Roxanne Gay
Why I'm reading this: I'm super late to Roxanne Gay. I've heard lots of podcasts and interviews and I simply haven't picked up one of her books. Hunger is described a "memoir of her body" and, as a plus sized woman who is comfortable in her body, I need to read this. I have been body-positive for years now, and I know that I'll find lots of affirmation in this book.
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Why I'm reading this: I bought this book on November 10, 2016 after I woke up to the news about the election. I grabbed a book that I knew would remind me of why I am committed to justice and equity. I started this book and had to put it down -- mostly because my own life/work schedule got the best of me. But, I'm picking it back up this summer.
Trans* In College by Z Nicolazzo
Why I'm reading this: In all fairness, I read this book in two sittings a few months ago. But, I was reading it to escape my own difficult realities. I need to read it again to better listen to the stories of Dr. Nicolazzo and the participants in this book. I do not identify as transgender, and this book was important to my own knowledge and practice in education as well as to my own growth as a human being. I highly recommend this book.
An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz
Why I'm reading this: Sure, I followed along at what was happening at Standing Rock, but my own ignorance contributes to my limited activism. This book seems heavy and incredibly important. So, it's on my list as I keep trying to push my own limits as to what I know, what I believe, and what I can change.