Hosting the author of the common reading book on campus is often cited as one of the most rewarding parts of first-year programs. Below, we’ve rounded up testimonials for some of our most popular speakers and book selections hosted by programs across the country for their First-Year Experience® events.

Colson Whitehead

“I’m still basking in the glow of a truly spectacular event! Colson was an enormous hit. I’m sure I don’t have to tell you what a gifted speaker he is; honestly, the man could have had a career as a stand-up comedian—his material is strong and timing impeccable! And he reads his work masterfully. Given the disturbing, often grim content of his book, I think it was a welcome surprise to people that he used humor to lead into the evening.  He was engaging and gracious with the people who had books signed. His visit with the undergraduate students was a unique opportunity for them to converse with him about his work, his process, and get his advice.  I know the students were inspired by what he shared about this own journey as a writer and just his overall kindness.”— Butler University

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Cristina Henríquez

“Having Cristina Henríquez on the Purdue campus for a reading was one of the highlights of the year. Not only is Henríquez an eminently talented writer who imbues her prose with grace and soul, she is a charming, warm, and engaging reader. She had the audience of students, faculty, and community members rapt as she read from her latest novel, The Book of Unknown Americans and after, she led one of the best Q&A sessions I’ve ever attended (and I have attended many). She was able to talk about craft and content with intelligence and humor and we can’t wait to bring her back to campus.”— Roxane Gay, author of Hunger and Associate Professor, Purdue University

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Edward Humes

“My students and I were thrilled to hear Edward Humes speak at our recent Freshman Convocation ceremony. His examples for being more conscientious consumers were both arresting and relevant to the students’ daily lives. His concern for our planet is both genuine and infectious, and the students came away inspired to examine their own trash-producing behaviors. As a teacher, I am grateful that Ed’s presence lent a personal touch to our classroom explorations of Garbology.  I believe his effect on my students will be long-lasting; they learned that we must not only be better stewards of our precious resources, but we must also spread the word, just as he is doing.”— Debbi Mercado, Lecturer, English and Academic First-Year Experiences, California State University, Northridge

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Emily St. John Mandel

“Everything came together beautifully! The students greeted her as if she was a rock star, her talk was interesting and spell-binding, followed by a good half-hour of eager questioning, all by students. There is no doubt in my mind that Emily’s demeanor and presence made the night. It was wonderful. She is very kind, and showed a lot of stamina and patience.”— St. Michael’s College

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Headed to the 2018 Annual Conference of the First-Year Experience®?

RSVP to a PRH Author Event to meet Francisco Cantú, Omar El Akkad,  Franklin Foer, Yaa Gyasi, Lauren Markham, Imbolo Mbue, and more.