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Common Read at CC 2023-24

This guide accompanies the book for CC's Common Read Program.

Non Fiction

There are several components to keep in mind while reading, 

  • Purpose -- what is this text really about, what kind of text is it? is it appropriate for the writer’s purpose?
  • Organization -- what structure does the text broadly follow? how is the text organized? is the overall structural organization appropriate? are any sections that might improve the text missing?
  • Connectives/Transitions -- is the "flow" or progression of ideas smooth and logical? what transitional or connective elements are used? is there a variety of these transitional/connective elements?
  • Language -- what interesting or unusual language features do you see in the text? does the text demonstrate a varied vocabulary, is it too dry and repetitive?
  • What is your overall impression of the text? Why?

How did you relate to reading the book?

Did it entertain you?
Did you find it relevant?
How did it make you feel?
Did it make you learn? Did it provoke thinking and response?

Questions about the book

Did you find the theme compelling?

What do you think motivated the author to write this book?

When does the author explain the meaning of the title and how does it relate to the contents of the book?

What is your sense of the author? What are her values?

What passages stand out for you? How do you feel about them?

Were there some aspects of the text that disappointed you or caused you to feel frustrated as a reader? What were they?

How do the ideas in the text connect with the real world and your own life?

How did the book make you reflect on your own life?

What did you learn from reading this book?

Did the author's purpose in writing her story impart insights to you? What are they?

Are there lingering questions from the book you're still thinking about?