Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

The open letter against ‘cancel culture’ was mostly signed by people with enormous influence — those who least need to worry about ‘cancellation.’

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

The psychological realism of Laura van den Berg’s second book parallels the isolation many are feeling during the pandemic.

Kaitlyn Nuebel, University of Pittsburgh

After receiving harsh criticism from her colleagues, the former columnist speaks of the grim consequences for people that go against the grain.

Anna Barnard, St. Olaf College

In her new book, Samantha Mabry shows readers that vulnerability and independence are not mutually exclusive.

Juliana Fujii, Biola University

Instead of villainizing technology just because it’s trendy, Cal Newport makes a compelling case for satisfaction that runs deeper than pings and pixels.

Renee Cantor, University of Pittsburgh

In her memoir, Carmen Maria Machado documents her experiences in an abusive queer relationship, telling a story that often goes untold.

Chloe Hamer, Pitzer College

The concept provides an artistic and powerful way to engage in social change by coaxing our imagination to connect us to the voices of the past.

Abigail Adeleke, University of Miami

Now more than ever, people are calling on brands to step up. The culture magazine took another step in the right direction by having Dario Calmese shoot their cover.

Renee Cantor, University of Pittsburgh

With videos ranging from book reviews to bookshelf tours to group reads, this online community is more than just a virtual book club.

Chloe Hamer, Pitzer College

The philosopher’s theories of the ‘studium’ and the ‘punctum’ explains why we prefer certain creative works over others.

Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

There’s no shame in dropping a book that you have no desire to read.

Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

Khalil Gibran Muhammad’s exploration of African Americans during the Progressive Era unveils the prejudice behind evidence of Black criminality.

Audrey Martin, Boston University

Whether you want to be a prestigious journalist or write the next bestselling fantasy novel, these tips will help you build a following.

Mia Kellner, University of St Andrews

Asexuality and aromanticism are seemingly impossible to find in mainstream pop culture, but what if we look beyond the labels?

Tess McGrinder, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Whether your goal is to cut back on wasted screen time, increase your cultural knowledge, or learn self-patience, this app is a necessity.

Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

This exercise is one of the best ways to help authors overcome feeling stuck. Following certain guidelines of the practice will ensure success.

Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

In her book ‘Sweet Remedies,’ herbalist and apothecary Dawn Combs spills the beans on honey-based drinks and confectionery.

Imani Benberry, Columbia University

‘Such a Fun Age’ and ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ illustrate that just avoiding overt racism isn’t enough to combat white supremacy on a systemic level.

McKenna Uzelac, Columbia University

It is more important than ever to remember the teachings of renowned Black feminist scholar as we consider empathy in our own communities.

Anna Barnard, St. Olaf College

The graphic novel by Raina Telgemeier captures the struggle of being diagnosed — and living with — a chronic illness.

Emilia Chavez, Rice University

Amy Poehler, Hope Jahren and James Comey reveal that although success seems bright and shiny from the outside, the journey there is often bumpy.

Elias Khoury, University of Michigan

Though Robin DiAngelo’s book clearly comes from a well-meaning place, does the book undermine the possibility for working-class solidarity across races?

Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

So-called ‘portal fantasy’ reveals the awe, fear and transformative power of traveling to another world — one that might be appealing in our present dystopia.

Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

Just because the author has revealed her transphobia doesn’t mean fans have to completely abandon the the franchise. Instead, they can reclaim it.

Mitchell Tanaka, Chapman University

Alan Moore’s comics explored a character’s psyche that continues to resonate with contemporary politics, albeit for the wrong reasons.

Mia Kellner, University of St Andrews

The ‘Divergent’ author’s newest novel revitalizes the tired ‘chosen one’ trope by weaving a compelling narrative about what happens to heroes after saving the world.

Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

They are often essential community institutions, and their continued survival during the pandemic is now more important than ever.

Emilia Chavez, Rice University

In light of the chaos coming out of Washington D.C. today, this book is the perfect read to cure your woes.

Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

Susan Choi’s novel defies conventional wisdom about fiction and intentionally creates characters that are hard to relate to — making a unique, compelling read in the process.

Renee Cantor, University of Pittsburgh

Saeed Jones’ memoir is an honest and striking coming-of-age story about the Black queer experience and fighting to become yourself.

Anna Swenson, Butler University

The Hulu miniseries uses everyday scenes to take on an all too persistent problem in the fight for racial equality.

Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

Beth O’Leary’s debut novel, which features a very unusual living arrangement, makes the case for the genre as possessing real emotional depth.

Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

Julie Berry mixes the gods of Ancient Greece with romance and World War I, all in a novel that portrays the violence of white supremacy. 

Tess McGrinder, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

In this memoir, the comedian uses his personal experiences in South Africa and the U.S. to outline the fundamental irrationality behind racism — and why it continues to flourish.

Mia Kellner, University of St Andrews

Almost everything magical in the fantasy series relies on the use of animals in some shape or form. Is it even possible for a vegan to live in this world, and would they even want to?

Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

American pop culture has been defined by black excellence for decades. From Gordon Parks to Aaliyah, black artists continue to influence the new generation.

Luke Gair, Sewanee: The University of the South

The Mason family left an imprint on the West Hollywood queer scene with their shop. Years later, members of the community talk of its unwavering relevance.

Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

During times like these, creatives have way too much time on their hands. One result: killer web comics with deadly serious undertones.

Audrey Martin, Boston University

Once a cherished author, the ‘Harry Potter’ writer has fallen from grace due to her continued ignorance regarding trans and other members of the queer community.

Anna Swenson, Butler University

For fans who just finished the series, leaving the world they’ve come to love just isn’t an option. Fortunately, they don’t have to.

Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

Written on a prison typewriter, the novel tells the story of a young man who falls in love, joins the war and robs banks to pay for heroin  — a tale not unlike the author’s own life.

Mia Kellner, University of St Andrews

At first glance, ‘The Hunger Games’ prequel has flat characters and a dull Hunger Games. However, is Suzanne Collins just challenging readers to reflect on how they view violence in entertainment?

Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

Eric Cervini’s historical opus describes how homophobia within American law enforcement bears a striking resemblance to racist policing practices.

Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

This wildly popular, binge-worthy web comic takes the myth of Hades and Persephone and sticks it into today’s world.

Ailun Shi, UC Berkeley

All good things must come to an end. By constantly amending their works, authors like J.K. Rowling risk ruining their books — and stunting the growth of young fan fiction writers.

Katie Klear, Columbia College Chicago

In attempts to combat the lack of diversity, writers from non-marginalized communities often miss the mark when writing about groups they don’t identify with.

Anna Swenson, Butler University

Suzanne Collins’ new prequel to the ‘Hunger Games’ trilogy investigates the origins of the series’s central villain, President Snow, without justifying his hunger for power.

McKenna Uzelac, Columbia University

As June begins and protests over racial injustice continue, it’s important to make space for queer black literature.

Cathleen Luo, Columbia University

The acclaimed novelist writes that, much like writing, running requires deliberate practice, even when you don’t feel completely passionate about it.

Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

Framed as a series of letters to her daughters, the star comedian uses her book to explore life experiences, inequality and her culture with her trademark vulgar hilarity.

Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

Published in 2017, Paul Butler’s book equips supporters of Black Lives Matter with one more important resource to curb racism in law enforcement.

Kayla Johnson, Bradley University

Using the small publishing platform, the ‘After’ author was able to make a name for herself — and at the same time, raise the possibility that others could do the same.

Victoria Acosta, Southern Adventist University

Although the stories of Greek gods and goddesses may originate from thousands of years ago, the lessons they give to us still resonate today.

Alyssa Alexander, SUNY Buffalo State

Even nearly 20 years later, this classic graphic novel from the author of ‘Persepolis’ stands up for women, not just in Iran, but worldwide.

Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

From the intricacies of penguin poop to the origin of bellybutton lint, these works will answer questions you didn’t even think to ask.

Bradford Smith, Louisiana State University

‘Men have called me mad but the question is not yet settled, whether madness is or is not the loftiest intelligence.’ — Edgar Allan Poe

Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

The 6-year-old lead character of the long-running manga and anime not only investigates crimes, but the culture of his native land as well.

Kate Carter, Middle Tennessee State University

If you don’t think you have the time to read the longer classics, these shorter fiction works that span a wide range of genres will help you on your literary journey. 

Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

It’s time people start taking the genre seriously.

Nanda Illahi, Okayama University

Set against the backdrop of Malaysia’s infamous 1969 race riots, this young adult novel and webtoon deals with the horrors of prejudice and trauma.

Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

There’s so many approaches that you can take; the important thing is to do what feels right to you. 

Sarah Stager, University of Pittsburgh

The legendary author identified the pain all around us, but still found reasons to be optimistic about the human spirit.

Brian Anderson Gil, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

Twenty years after the film adaptation of his novel ‘American Psycho,’ the author maintains his status as someone with an honest artistic vision.

Rose Younglove, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

The Lorrie Moore short story, told in second person, is a powerful statement about not giving up on your ambitions.

S. T. Perez, Texas A&M University, San Antonio

Set against the context of the #MeToo movement, the debut novel of Kate Elizabeth Russell probes into the interactions between a predatory man and his teenage student.

Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

During stressful times like these, it’s reassuring to return to old, beloved stories instead of forging into the new and unknown.

S. T. Perez, Texas A&M University, San Antonio

Against the backdrop of a small Texas town, Elizabeth Wetmore’s novel is a gritty depiction of a violent, patriarchal society.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

It’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, so why not read about the importance of loving and accepting our identities?

Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

What is it exactly that gets lost in the void between the page and the screen — and why do fans of the book get so mad about it?

Kaelani Ramirez, Arizona State University

They might not be getting big movie or TV adaptations, but they might just become your new favorites.

Michelle Young, Simon Fraser University

The heartwarming young adult novel follows an Asian American teenager caught between the culture of the United States and her parents’ homeland.

Kaelani Ramirez, Arizona State University

Writing a poem can be a terrifying process. Here are some tips to make the journey easier.

Katherine McLaughlin, The New School

It’s perfectly normal to feel confused as you fully enter adulthood. This book by Dr. Meg Jay shows some ways to attain clarity and direction.

Katherine McLaughlin, The New School

Polished lesson plans and real-world examples from the prestigious paper of record will give anyone the skills they need to become better at writing.

Rose Younglove, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

The Batman universe courts controversy with its fandom by turning the original Robin/Nightwing into an edgy bad boy with amnesia.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

The zine released by the Asian American Feminist Collective offers a communal response to the emerging anti-Asian xenophobia in the wake of COVID-19.

Alyssa Alexander, SUNY Buffalo State

The magazine has been a shadow of its former self for years. Will it be able to keep up in the online publishing world?

Rose Younglove, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

You already have all the magic you need inside.

Sarah Stager, University of Pittsburgh

When there’s nothing better to do, journaling could be the perfect way to pass time and release your inner anxieties.

Kaelani Ramirez, Arizona State University

A good story has no targeted age group, and punchy, coming-of-age narratives can appeal to anybody.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

Fan fiction is adding a few more dimensions to a character many felt was left underdeveloped.

Mirella Gonzales, Texas Tech University

It’s time to go on another angsty adventure with the prolific young adult author.

Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

There’s still so much to say about these beloved books and the impact they have had on an entire generation of readers.

Brian Anderson Gil, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

His work ‘The Taste of Cigarettes’ demonstrates that writing is borne of personal toil — whatever form that may take.

Emerson Holmes, Lindenwood University

Poetry isn’t just written down. Some poets are evolving the genre by using their voices as their medium.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

While the world has lauded the country for K-beauty, this webtoon shows the dark side of South Korean beauty standards.

Alyssa Alexander, SUNY Buffalo State

Despite its endorsement from Oprah, Jeanine Cummins’ book about the life of a Mexican woman is having a damaging impact on minorities.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

The Chinese web novel finds its strong female lead getting an opportunity to start life over as a teenager, and avenging the betrayal that ended her life.

Kayla Placide, University at Buffalo

Both shows are based on beloved fantasy books, but are they comparable?

Brian Anderson Gil, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

The storied and often dangerous life of the Latin American author helped create stories that spoke to isolation and dislocation.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

We stan the biromantic, asexual woman of color protagonist in Claire Kann’s new novel.

Nina Dutta, Occidental College

Autumn De Wilde’s film may not be entirely true to the book, but it still captures the essence of the author’s work.

Michelle Young, Simon Fraser University

While its simple style has received praise for its accessibility, there are a few that can satisfy readers who want more.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

It’s not only a whole new world of literature, but what’s better than something that’s free and accessible at any time during the day?

Kayla Placide, University at Buffalo

Why is the murdering main character of the Netflix show garnering so much sympathy?

Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

Writing is — and should be — really hard and really frustrating. Otherwise, you’re not doing it right.

Andrew Reece

Diversity can be hard to find in the accepted literary canon, but literature is full of LGBTQ+ representation if you know where to look.

Katherine McLaughlin, The New School

Not every love story has a satisfying end.

Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

Many of these books are criticized for their unrealistic portrayal of the world; however, that may be their greatest strength.

Kaelani Ramirez, Arizona State University

While reigniting interest in poetry, ‘Instagram poets’ like Rupi Kaur and Amanda Lovelace still face their share of criticism.