Reading 'Round the Ryukyus

Available at your local library, Reading 'Round the Ryukyus kits allow individuals to check out the materials needed for a book club meeting. In every book club bag are 10 copies of the selected book and an accompanying guide that includes forms and information to assist the discussion leader.

For established group, Reading 'Round the Ryukyus offers an easy way to branch out of your comfort zone. Stick strictly to classics? Maybe a discussion about the fate-bound couple in Jennifer Crusie's Bet Me will give your group a lighthearted break before diving back into War and Peace. Or, take a respite from romance and tackle the grotesquely engaging Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers.

In addition to providing options to expand title selections, Reading 'Round the Ryukyus is a springboard for those starting a book club. The readers' guide includes suggestions about organizing a book club, selecting titles, and maintaining effective discussions.

Reading 'Round the Ryukyus kits may be checked out for six weeks, but they cannot be renewed. Groups can reserve kits in person or by phone. Please remember that if another group has a kit, the wait may be a little longer than for other library items.

Titles of Reading 'Round the Ryukyus kits (please call Foster Library for availability, 645-7178)

The Professional Reading Program

The Marine Corps Professional Reading Program Began as the Commandant's Reading List in 1988, although recommended reading lists have been generated for Marines since the 19th century. Each Commandant since 1988 has placed his personal stamp on the program, but many of the books have remained constant. Great books will always remain a staple of informal, self-paced professional development, but technology promises greater convenience and flexibility for today's Marine. MCU is exploring books on tape (CD) and downloadable audio files for the ipod (c).

The reading list is available here.