WWU Presents: Beach Reading Reimagined

Eric will talk about the concept of “beach reading;” where we do it, why we do it, and why we might want to think about it differently. He’ll consider the historical conditions that have affected the way we read, drawing examples from the 19th century and more modern times, which suggest that we might read differently as conditions change – particularly at beaches! – in our present historical moment with its environmental challenges. If you’re looking for ideas of books to take to the beach this summer, Eric will provide you with his top-10 recommendations you might not find on other lists. Eric Morel is writing his doctoral dissertation on 19th-century American literature at the University of Washington. He received his B.A. from Davidson College and a Master’s in English at the University of Nevada – Reno. He researches what reading literary works offers in the face of environmental issues.