What We're Reading - January 2025

Each month, What We’re Reading features reflections on current reads from Follett Content team members. It’s a blog where our collective lifelong love of reading takes center stage! 

For this January installment, team members who support our summer reading initiatives share some of the titles they’re currently devouring. 

Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies 

By Jared Diamond

Reviewed by Brian James, Strategic Programs and Products Director

“Although I was a history major in college and taught high school social studies for a few years, I haven’t read a history book in a while and have been looking for one to dive into. I heard Jared Diamond, the author of Guns, Germs, and Steel, on a podcast a few years back and found his conversation with the interviewer fascinating. I made a mental note that I’d like to read it at some point, so after I saw it on our summer reading list, I thought now would be the perfect time to pick it up. As the title implies, several technological and environmental factors have significantly impacted human history. The book isn’t written in a heavy, academic way (like some of the snoozers I read in college, haha), but is accessible and engaging. Although the book is now over twenty years old, the comprehensive look it provides on the events that shaped history, and the lessons we can learn from them, are timeless.”

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About Brian

Brian has been with Follett Content for the past 14 years. Prior to joining the company, he spent three years teaching high school social studies and reading strategies. His wife, Katie, is an instructional coach at an elementary school. They have twin boys in third grade and a daughter in kindergarten. In his free time, he enjoys coaching his kids’ sports teams, cooking, working out, and tackling various projects around the house.

Salt to the Sea

By Ruta Sepetys

Reviewed by Cari Caruso, Data and Partnership Management Director

“I chose Salt to the Sea because it centers on the lesser known but devastating Wilhelm Gustloff tragedy, a catastrophic event that is often overlooked. The novel weaves together real historical events and fictional characters, offering a powerful and educational narrative. Rather than focusing on battles or political strategies, it highlights the personal impact of war, giving history a human face. The settings – frozen landscapes, crowded refugee routes, and the ship itself – feel incredibly vivid, pulling readers into the harsh realities faced by those caught in the turmoil. It’s a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant exploration of one of history’s untold stories.”

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About Cari

Cari is the Director of Data and Partner Management at Follett Content. She’s been with the company since 2001, contributing to diverse roles, including financial planning and analysis, inventory management, and leading teams in inventory procurement and data research. In her current role, she focuses on optimizing data strategies and building strong partnerships to support company growth. 

Dust Bowl Girls: The Inspiring Story of the Team That Barnstormed Its Way to Basketball Glory

By Lydia Reeder

Reviewed by Chris Woods, Senior Warehouse Operations Manager

“I mostly enjoy reading nonfiction, as there are so many great true stories from the pages of history. This is an inspirational book, detailing the lives of individuals who overcame great difficulties during the Great Depression. As a father of two teenage girls and a major sports fan, I look forward to them reading this book along with me and discussing it as a family around dinners. It also feels timely, since my oldest daughter is preparing to start her college journey in the coming year.”

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About Chris

Chris just celebrated his 30^th year with Follett Content and has a degree in Business Administration from Aurora University. He lives in Harvard, Illinois, with his wife and two teenage daughters. 

Looking for a high-interest book list for your students? These books were selected by our team of teachers and librarians to engage students during independent reading.

Need help getting started? Fill out a form, and we’ll help you explore your options! 

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