The Civically Engaged Reader: A Diverse Collection of Short Provocative Readings on Civic Activity

"We all know that reflection is a key component of effective service and civic engagement. This book is a must-have resource, a compendium of writing from diverse times and voices guaranteed to stimulate lively conversation and hard thinking." -- Elizabeth Hollander, executive director, Campus Compact

This book is for anyone who has ever tossed a dime in a panhandler's cup--or had one tossed in his own. It's for anyone who has ever served at a soup kitchen, volunteered to bake cookies, tutored a child, or fought a war. Admittedly, it raises as many questions as it answers and complicates as much as it simplifies. But if you've ever considered the possibility of a better world, and reflected on how you might take part in such a place, this is the book to take along for the journey." -- Billy Lombardo, author of The Logic of a Rose: Chicago Stories and former Service Learnign Program director at the Latin School of Chicago

The Civically Engaged Reader assembles more than forty provocative and diverse readings that range across literature, philosophy, and religion. These selections invite reflection on all kinds of civic-minded activities--from giving and serving to leading and associating--and on the vital connections between thought and service.

The selections in The Civically Engaged Reader will stimulate both individual contemplation and lively group discussion and debate. Appendixes with questions for discussion and tips for making those discussions meaningful make this anthology a ready-to-go resource for service and volunteer groups, as well as college classrooms.