After updating my GoodReads account earlier in the week, I shared two book recommendations via Twitter for my higher education and student affairs colleagues. I’m sharing them again here so they’ll be more easily available and accessible. I’m hoping to make this a monthly feature.

Halfway Heaven: Diary of a Harvard Murder by Melanie Thernstrom

Thernstrom explores the murder of Vietnamese student Trang Phuong Ho by her roommate, Sinedu Tadesse, who subsequently committed suicide. Though the incident received little press outside of the Boston area, it’s been revisited in the years following in light of similar situations on campuses. Delving into issues of mental illness and standard of care, Thernstrom examines Harvard’s knowledge of Tadesse’s struggles as a student prior to the murder. Tadesse’s own journals are cited, offering a harrowing look at the times she sought help and was not taken seriously. The book contributes meaningfully to ongoing dialogue about universities’ responsibility in working with students with mental illness. This is a captivating glance at the shortcomings of the Harvard system and an opportunity to engage in discussion about your own institution’s current policies and practices.

The Unlikely Disciple: A Sinner’s Semester at America’s Holiest University by Kevin Roose

Taking a semester off from private, liberal Brown University in Rhode Island, Kevin enrolls undercover at Liberty University, the private, conservative university founded by Jerry Falwell. Roose chronicles a semester of reframing what it means to be a college student, having to meet a different set of standards and trying to blend in on campus. From the classroom to the cafeteria and the church, Roose was challenged by his understanding of the Liberty culture. In an unexpected turn, Roose becomes the last member of the media to interview Jerry Falwell before the evangelist’s death. A captivating, easy ready, this book makes a wonderful foundation for discussion for student affairs professionals examining institutional culture and student development.

Have you read either of these books? Do you have a book discussion group on campus?  Share your thoughts in the comments!