Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I obtain a copy of the book?
Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport, the 2025-26 Common Reading Program book, is available in the Penn State Berks bookstore and is also on reserve at the Thun Library.
What happens if I don't read the book?
All incoming first-year students are required to read the common reading selection. Since there is an academic requirement to have completed the book by the first week of school, failure to fulfill this requirement may result in the lowering of your grade in the First-Year Seminar (FYS) course.
How was the book chosen?
The entire Penn State Berks community was invited to submit their suggestions regarding the book for the coming academic year. From the nominated books, several are identified as the most relevant choices. The Common Reading Committee reads and reviews these selections during the summer months and then condenses the initial suggestion list to three choices for the FYS instructors and peer mentors to review using the following criteria. The book should:
- Act as a bridge between students and faculty
- Contain themes for discussion which touch on many different topics
- Appeal to young adults
- Prompt inquiry, reflection, and discourse
- Be available in paperback
- Be lively and engaging reading (highly readable, not too long)
The FYS instructors are then invited to make the final decision by choosing next year's book via an online vote, which is then submitted to the associate dean for approval.