McDaniel College’s first year students are encouraged to read a critically acclaimed book over the summer to prepare for meaningful conversations on the book during the next academic year. Discussions are led by faculty and begin during the summer using a secure online discussion board. The summer reading is also linked closely with many orientation activities and continues to be incorporated throughout the student’s first year seminar.

2008-2009 Book Selection

For two decades, MSNBC.com contributor Jeannette Walls hid her hardscrabble past as the child of two rebellious noncomformists (who sometimes put painting before parenting). With her riveting memoir, The Glass Castle, Walls breaks her silence to reveal a triumphant story of strength, success, and unconditional love.

Order "The Glass Castle" from McDaniel's bookstore.