Ann Arbor Reads is a project to encourage all of Ann Arbor to read one book that raises ethical issues posed by advances in the life sciences. The program is modeled after similar programs in over 100 cities across the country but is unique in focusing on contemporary ethical issues. Ann Arbor Reads will take place from January-March 2003.
What book will Ann Arbor read?
Abraham Lincoln’s DNA, and Other Adventures in Genetics
by Philip R. Reilly, Published in 2000
"The 21st century has begun with an overwhelming outpouring of advances in molecular biology and genetics, and the medical profession has only started to wrestle with the many social and moral questions posed by the startling progress in these fields. Indeed, as Philip Reilly suggests in this straightforward and readable collection of intertwined essays, society as a whole must confront these questions. For laypeople and professionals alike who yearn for a better understanding of genetically engineered crops, DNA fingerprinting, cloning, or gene therapy, here is a valuable addition to a small but critical literature that will frame our public discourse as we decide how to use the burgeoning knowledge of the genome." -- The New England Journal of Medicine, March 8, 2001.
Where can I get the book?
You can request the book at the Ann Arbor District Library, or purchase it from: Shaman Drum Nicola's Books Borders Books Barnes & Noble It's also on reserve at these University of Michigan Libraries: University Library Reserve Taubman Library Reserve Science Library Reserve Media Union Reserve You can also purchase the book online: Amazon Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press
How was the book chosen?
Ann Arbor Reads is a project to encourage all of Ann Arbor to read one book that raises ethical issues posed by advances in the life sciences. The program is modeled after similar programs in over 100 cities across the country but is unique in focusing on contemporary ethical issues. A screening team composed primarily of UM faculty and staff reviewed nearly 100 books during the summer of 2002. Amy R. Sheon, Life Sciences, Values and Society Program, Coordinator Karl Pohrt, Shaman Drum Bookshop Karl L. Bates, Life Sciences Institute Eric Rabkin, LS&A English Lang & Lit Dept Evans Young, Assistant Dean, LS&A Undergraduate Education Margit Burmeister, Human Genetics Department Sandra Gregerman, Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program Sara Rutter, UM Science Library
The Screening team identified three finalist books:
Abraham Lincoln's DNA by Philip R. Reilly Frankenstein by Mary Shelley Beggars in Spain by Nancy Kress A Selection team was then convened and reviewed the three finalist books. On October 21, the Selection team entertained public comments and then met and reached consensus about the final book. The Selection Team included: Chair: Rick Lempert, Life Sciences, Values and Society Program Letitia Byrd, Ann Arbor News Citizen of the Year, 1997 Valerie Castle, UM Associate Provost Jim Dwyer, Huron High School English Teacher Alice Fishman, Book Discussion Group Coordinator, Ann Arbor District Library Mary Flack, Vice President of clinical and regulatory affairs, NanoBio John Russell, Pioneer High School Science Teacher Jared Saltiel, Ann Arbor High School Student, Neutral Zone Board Member Marsha M. Woolley, Pastor, First United Methodist Church
Ann Arbor Reads also has the support of a Blue Ribbon Committee including leading citizens:
David Canter, Head, Pfizer Global Research and Development Mary Sue Coleman, President, University of Michigan John Hieftje, Mayor, Ann Arbor Daniel Oates, Police Chief, Ann Arbor Rossi Ray-Taylor, Former Superintendent, Ann Arbor Public Schools David Sharp, Publisher, Ann Arbor News