2020 Common Reader Award Opportunities

The Common Reader selected for the 2019-2020 academic year is Red: Passion and Patience in the Desert, by Terry Tempest Williams. The first step to participate in the Common Reader project is to read the collection of stories, essays, and testimony. It is available at most libraries and major bookstores, including our partner Better World Books. Next, begin exploring these opportunities:

The Regents’ Common Reader Awards provide an opportunity for individual chapters to organize and host a local event or activity based on Red: Passion and Patience in the Desert. Chapter members do not need to attend the convention to apply. View application guidelines to find out how you can receive $100 for your event or activity. Ideas for chapter activities related to the Common Reader can be found by searching the Noteworthy Activity Database.
Common Reader Convention Awards of up to $600, for critical essays or other genres of work that deal with the 2020 Common Reader, will be given at the international convention.