Academics
Summer Reading Program
Outcasts United: An American Town, A Refugee Team and
One Woman’s Quest to Make a Difference
by Warren St. John
FAQ
How do I get the book?
You will get a copy when you check in at SOAR, the Mars Hill College Summer Orientation, Advising and Registration. If you did not receive a book, please contact Bev Robertson at brobertson@mhc.edu or at 828.689.1561.
Why am I reading THIS book?
Our Committee agrees with Bill Littlefield of National Public Radio, who said “If you only read one book over the next few months, it should be Outcasts United.”
We hope that some of the things that you read about will make you think—about how people in a community can beat the odds and come together for mutual good. about immigration and acculturation; portraits of heroism; the role of strong women; and the appreciation of all cultures. Perhaps about your own life & times of transitions. And we hope that you’ll want to talk about some of those things when they get back on campus in August.
“A brilliant and empathetic depiction of our common quest for meaning and happiness. Warren St. John invites us into the lives of a community of refugees, their bewildered neighbors in a small town, and a Jordanian woman who not only coaches but also mentors, mothers, and inspires some remarkable boys, to create a heartwarming tale about the transformations that occur when our disparate lives connect.” —Ishmael Beah, author of A Long Way Gone
We feel sure you’ll enjoy it. Reading Outcasts United is a great way to kick off your college experience, and it will be supported by many programs. We hope you find the book as amazing as we did, and that you come to campus in August with a few ideas about it to share.
What do I do after I read the book?
Read the book when you return home, take a look at the Readers’ Guide, jot down ideas. Bring the book with you when you return to campus in August. Participate in discussions, attend related programs and most importantly, enjoy the book!