KU Common Book Program announces 2023-24 events
LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas Common Book Program will host a slate of activities and events surrounding the 2023-24 Common Book selection, “Parable of the Sower,” by American science fiction writer Octavia Butler.
Students, faculty and staff across the university are encouraged to engage with this important book and participate in the conversations and activities taking place around campus throughout the academic year. Prior familiarity with the book is not required to join in the events.
Free copies of “Parable of the Sower,” are available via the request form for classes or personal use. Books can be picked up at Watson or Anschutz libraries, or access the book online through KU Libraries.
Common Book events in connection with "Parable of the Sower" will take place across campus during the 2023-24 school year. The events page on the Common Book website will be updated throughout the fall and spring semesters.
View the KU Common Work of Art: “Parable of the Sower: Oya’s Dream”
Through Jan. 7, 2024 | Spencer Museum of Art
Each year the Spencer Museum selects a work of art to provide a visual pairing with KU Common Book. This year’s KU Common Work of Art, “Parable of the Sower: Oya’s Dream,” by Fahamu Pecou, is featured in the Spencer’s fall exhibition “Black Writing,” which explores the power, politics and complexities of language in contemporary Black culture, a collaboration in celebration of the 40th anniversary of KU’s History of Black Writing program.
Black Forager
7 p.m. Sept. 6, Liberty Hall, 644 Massachusetts St.
The Commons hosts Alexis Nikole Nelson (@BlackForager) at Liberty Hall.
Slow Art Sunday: “Parable of the Sower: Oya’s Dream”
2-3 p.m. Sept. 10, Spencer Museum of Art
Slow Art Sundays allow you to spend time getting to know one great work of art through relaxed contemplation and guided conversation. September’s Slow Art Sunday focuses on "Parable of the Sower: Oya’s Dream."
“Saving the World Through Science and Fiction,” exhibition opening
Oct. 5, Haricombe Gallery, Watson Library 3 West
The Haricombe Gallery on Watson Third Floor West hosts two major collaborative exhibitions per year with a keynote speaker and reception marking the exhibition’s debut. Explore the gallery at your leisure throughout the semester or visit online.
“Saving the World Through Science and Fiction,” discussion panel
Oct. 12, Haricombe Gallery, Watson Library 3 West
As an extension of the Haricombe Gallery on Watson Third Floor West, a panel of scholars will present their work in this public event.
Edwards Campus book discussion, “Parable of the Sower Debrief”
4:30-6 p.m. Nov. 14, KU Edwards Campus Hawk’s Nest
Join Student Services and DEI Initiatives for a welcoming and cozy night to discuss the book and the importance of Butler’s work. RSVP for this event.
Marathon reading of “Parable of the Sower”
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 29 and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 30, Spencer Museum of Art
Participate in a live marathon reading of “Parable of the Sower” to experience Butler's world-building within the “Black Writing” exhibition. You may sign up to read here. Copies of the book will be available. Sponsored by the Spencer Museum of Art, History of Black Writing, KU Common Book Program, Hall Center for the Humanities, Department of English and Gunn Center for the Study of Science Fiction.
Artist talk: Fahamu Pecou on creating “Parable of the Sower: Oya’s Dream”
4-5 p.m. Nov. 30, Spencer Museum of Art
Join Pecou as he discusses the KU Common Work of Art. The work symbolizes the new beginnings that emerge when one embraces the inevitability of change.
Author visit by N. K. Jemisin
7:30 p.m. April 25, Woodruff Auditorium
New York Times bestselling writer N.K. Jemisin, who composed the preface to the most recent edition of “Parable of Sower,” is an acclaimed science fiction and fantasy author, winning the prestigious Hugo Award three times in a row (the first author in history to do so). Come hear Jemisin read from her “Broken Earth” trilogy and speak about the influence of “Parable of the Sower” and Butler on her work.
The KU Common Book program is a campuswide initiative that fosters critical thinking and generates opportunities for shared experiences and conversation about topics and issues of significance in today’s world. The program is presented via partnership among KU Libraries, the Hall Center for the Humanities and the Division of Academic Success.