Stories, ideas, and curiosities to carry into the long days ahead!
by Fabiola M. Martinez Del Valle
Summer brings a burst of momentum, and our faculty have gathered a lively mix of books and shows that match the season’s energy. From sharp nonfiction and historical intrigue to laugh‑out‑loud comedy, these picks offer fresh perspectives, big ideas, and stories that keep you turning pages long after sunset.
Books
Fiction
The English Experience by Julie Schumacher – Anja Wanner (English Language & Linguistics): “This book (third in a trilogy, but it can be read independently) takes curmudgeon English professor Jason Fitger from the Midwest to the UK, where he oversees a summer study abroad program and, with that, the troubles, big and small, as well as the writing assignments of a cohort of U.S. exchange students. You’ll laugh, you’ll sigh, and on occasion you may be touched by the characters’ (and their writing’s) growth.”
Tamburlaine Must Die by Louise Welsh – Ronald Harris (Literary Studies): “Welsh, who writes crime fiction, takes on the 1593 murder of playwright Christopher Marlowe. Working from historical sources, she turns the question of Marlowe’s death into a historical whodunit. The novel is a favorite among students who take UW–Madison’s Christopher Marlowe class.”
A Dead Man in Deptford by Anthony Burgess – Ronald Harris (Literary Studies): “Burgess returned to the subject of Marlowe forty‑some years after German bombs destroyed his nearly complete graduate thesis on the playwright. In many respects, Burgess’s novel is the most compelling historical account of Marlowe’s death, over ‘le recknynge’ at Widow Bull’s inn.”
Nonfiction
Alchemy: An Illustrated History of Elixirs, Experiments, and the Birth of Modern Science by Philip Ball – Ronald Harris (Literary Studies): “Ball, a physical scientist who worked as an editor at the journal Nature, provides a very readable account of pre‑modern chemistry. Alchemy, he argues, represented an important phase in the development of modern science and the scientific method.”
Ringmaster: Vince McMahon and the Unmasking of America by Abraham Josephine Reisman – Nate Marshall (Creative Writing): “A biography of former WWE owner Vince McMahon, this book convincingly makes the case that McMahon laid much of the groundwork for the contemporary media and political landscape. For better or worse, the current U.S. president is a WWE Hall of Famer and the current secretary of education is a former WWE CEO. Take the silly things seriously before they make the serious things silly.”
There Is No Place for Us: Working and Homeless in America by Brian Goldstone – Sara Kelm (Rhetoric & Composition): “Goldstone follows multiple families in Atlanta caught in cycles of homelessness, showing that the perception of most unhoused folks is absolutely wrong—many have jobs, families, and live with family, in extended‑stay motels, or in short‑term rentals. The book provides stories of real people navigating the housing crisis and puts Madison’s housing crisis into perspective as part of a larger national systemic issue. It is devastating and difficult but incredibly empathetic and important, and it just won the Pulitzer Prize.”
Custodians of Wonder by Eliot Stein – Sara Kelm (Rhetoric & Composition): “Stein highlights cultural traditions that are dying out or held by only a few people. From pasta to poster painting to beekeeping, he finds wonder in these precious practices that are meaningful to these communities. It is so engaging, unique, and powerful—each chapter takes you to a new place and introduces you to a new tradition. It is also the University’s Go Big Read for 2026–2027, so current students can get a free copy.”
Wisconsin Talk: Linguistic Diversity in the Badger State by Thomas Purnell, Eric Raimy, and Joseph Salmons – Juliet Huynh (English Language & Linguistics): “This book explores the linguistic diversity in the state, including Indigenous, settler, and colonial influence, and how this all shapes language use in Wisconsin. I recommend it because it is a great companion if you are traveling in Wisconsin for the summer.”
TV Series
The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins – Helen Smith (Literary Studies): “In the show, Daniel Radcliffe and Tracy Morgan have a hilarious time as Daniel’s character attempts to make a successful documentary. The chemistry of the cast is fantastic, and the show is laugh‑out-loud funny. Reggie Dinkins is a lovable character who is quick‑witted, and Jordan and Radcliffe are both extremely well‑suited for their roles.”
These recommendations capture a spectrum of creative insights that reflect the diversity of perspectives within our community. We invite you to explore these works this summer and join the conversation as you experience the inspirations they offer. Reading or watching one of our picks? Share your thoughts and tag us on social!