UC BerkeleyBerkeley Reads: Defining Moments
Sourced from the UC Berkeley, this collection features engaging books and a film chosen by the Cal community for their profound exploration of "Defining Moments." These titles delve into the significant moments that shape us, offering powerful narratives about individuals, societies, and the world at large. We invite you to discover a story that might become a defining moment for you.
1. Personal Turning Points
Intimate stories where identity, resilience, and choices reshape lives.
Daring Greatly
From Julia Gottlieb, Nuclear Engineering Major, Class of 2026
Pachinko
From Minsook Kim, Senior Lecturer, East Asian Languages & Cultures
Crying in H Mart
From Belinda Kremer, College Writing Programs Lecturer
Wandering Stars
Recommended by Ryan Sloan, College Writing Programs Lecturer
2. Collective Crossroads
Works capturing moments when history, politics, and culture redefine society.
The Vaster Wilds
From Isabel Breskin, Library Assistant, The Bancroft Library
His Name Is George Floyd
From Michelle Baptiste, College Writing Programs Lecturer
The Bee Sting
Recommended by Anna Sackmann, Data Services Librarian
The Uncommon Reader
From Ann Glusker, Social Sciences Librarian
To Say Nothing Of The Dog
From Sam Pimentel, Assistant Professor in Department of Statistics
3. Future Directions
Books that spark imagination and responsibility for shaping tomorrow.
The Thrilling Adventures of Lovelace and Babbage
Recommended by Elliott Smith, Biology & Bioinformatics Librarian
A Life on Our Planet
Recommended by Vesna Rodic, Lecturer in Department of French
The Midnight Library
From Ziva Armstrong, Undergraduate Adviser, College of Letters & Science