Common Book Selection

2012-13 Book Selection

• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, written by Rebecca Skloot, tells the story of Henrietta Lacks and her cells, HeLa cells, which changed the world of medical research.


• The Auburn Connects! Committee selected this book to change the focus of our common book.  This book is about a woman and takes place in the United States.  The many topics addressed in this book provide ample opportunity for debate and critical thinking. 


• Again this year Auburn Connects! in partnership with Student Affairs will offer numerous speakers, programs, and films providing opportunities for students to continue their discussions about the book.

2011-12 Book Selection

• Mountains Beyond Mountains, written by Tracy Kidder, tells the story of Dr. Paul Farmer, and anthropologist and physician who has devoted his adult life to the medical care to the people in Haiti, Peru, and Russia who do not have access to adequate medical care otherwise. 

• The Auburn Connects! Committee selected this book because, like its predecessor, it provides a model of service for and encourages students to adopt a global worldview.

• Numerous speakers led discussions on disparities in healthcare, Haiti, global service, and other related topics including a visit from author Tracy Kidder.

2010-11 Book Selection

• Three Cups of Tea, written by David Oliver Relin, tells the story of Greg Mortenson's quest to build schools for both boys and girls in Pakistan and later Afghanistan.


• The Auburn Connects! Committee selected this book because it provides a model of service for and encourages students to adopt a global worldview.


• Campus enjoyed numerous speakers discuss education, service, relationships with these countries, and other related topics including a visit from Greg Mortenson himself.