What We're Reading

Beyond their professional interests in the field of technical communication, Technical Communication faculty also enjoy literature. Check out what faculty members are reading and their thoughts on each book! We would like to hear your thoughts on pieces of literature as well. If you would like to share your thoughts on a book or article, please email Dr. Marjorie T. Davis.

Thomas Friedman, The World Is Flat
"A fascinating narrative of the author's growing awareness of how much globalization has changed business around the world. As a technical communicator, we should read this book and think about how it affects our careers, now and in the future." --Marj Davis

Michael Crichton, State of Fear
"No matter what your view of global warming, you'll find this fictional account interesting. The difference between popular scientific perceptions and actual scientific research is presented in a challenging, story-like context." --Marj Davis

Doris Kearns Goodwin, Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln
"Goodwin explores how Abraham Lincoln, a little-known and intellectually-underestimated Illinois lawyer, became one of the greatest US presidents. By tapping the other candidates for the 1860 Republican nomination as well as several prominent Democrats to play major roles in his cabinet, Lincoln demonstrated character, leadership, and intellect surpassing them all. If you think you knew all there was to know about this man and his presidency, this book will probably prove you wrong. A fascinating read."--George Hayhoe

Elizabeth Kostova, The Historian
"This novel traces the quest of a teenaged girl and her parents to discover the historical roots of Dracula. Consisting almost entirely of letters, journal entries, and other documents, the book weaves a fascinating tapestry that kept me turning the pages several nights. Even those who don't usually enjoy the genre will like this suspenseful and exceptionally well-written Gothic novel."--George Hayhoe

Rob Walch and Mur Lafferty, Tricks of the Podcasting Masters
"I've just started this book because I want to incorporate podcasts into some of my classes this coming year. I intend to make podcasts a regular part of my distance courses in the MSTCO program, but I also plan to use them at least occasionally in my undergraduate classes."--George Hayhoe