Book’d, the book club on campus, highlights different perspectives through discussions about literature. The members of the club follow themes that are pre-selected at the beginning of the year by the officers, allowing for a wide range of cultural groups to be represented in their reading. 

When asked how Book’d selects their themes, Social Media Manager Sariah Brinkley explains, “The themes were chosen based on what type of national month it is, along with any significant events during that month. For example, October is National Disability Awareness Month, but also Halloween. Therefore, we figured students could read books written by or about someone who has a disability, or they could read a thriller or horror book. Not every month has a double theme, but we figured it would be a good idea to give students more options in order to expand their reading horizons.”  

The topics that will be read and discussed in 2025 are as follows: 

January will be focusing on throwbacks.  

February will be focusing on books written by or about Black authors/characters.  

March will be focusing on Women’s History Month and books written by women or about women.   

April will be focusing on the genre of Romance and books by and about deaf characters to bring awareness to Deaf History Month.  

May will be focusing on Asian and Pacific Islander characters and authors.   

The club’s goal is to encourage readers on campus to explore genres that they wouldn’t typically read on their own. They also discuss the themes of their books in their meetings, especially when the books focus on topics that aren’t commonly discussed in mainstream media. “It’s important for people to read books related to the topics we discuss in meetings because it deepens their knowledge.” President Amanpreet Kaur says. “It helps them engage more meaningfully in discussions and brings diverse perspectives to the table. In addition, it can inspire new ideas and [create] a more informed and connected community.”  

Brinkley shares which theme she’s looking forward to the most. “I am particularly excited for the month of February because we will be reading books by or about Black people in honor of Black History Month. It hits close to home because I am African American, and I really look forward to not only reading new books myself but hearing what other books people have read during that month.” She continues, “I think sometimes the main books [about Black characters] that are highlighted are about struggles, but I think it is also important do highlight the romance, fantasy, sci-fi, etc. because Black people are so complex and are in so many genres that deserve recognition.”  

Kaur is looking forward to both Women’s History Month and Black History Month. She says, “They offer different perspectives on important cultural and historical contributions. I also gain more understanding and knowledge of these topics. Also, being a woman, I feel a personal connection to the stories [relating to Women’s History Month]. These topics and genres can inspire and empower many of our members, which is very valuable.”  

Brinkley concludes, “When my friends and I came up with this club a long time ago, I didn’t realize how happy I’d feel about seeing it executed and in full swing this year. I am really proud of this club and all that it has become, and I am excited to see how it grows along with all of us.”