University of Richmond announces its One Book, One Richmond selection for 2016-17 academic year: 'Evicted' by Matthew Desmond

University of Richmond is announcing “Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City” by Matthew Desmond as its One Book, One Richmond selection for the upcoming academic year.

The campus-wide effort led by the Office of the Chaplaincy encourages the university and wider community to read and discuss a chosen book on a social justice issue. A committee of students, faculty and staff selects the book each year based on nominations from the community.

“Evicted,” The New York Times bestseller, is based on years of Harvard sociologist Matthew Desmond’s own embedded fieldwork and data gathering. 

“This book examines and transforms our understanding of extreme poverty and economic exploitation while providing fresh ideas on possible solutions,” said Molly Field, community engagement program manager and One Book, One Richmond coordinator. “We invite the UR community and beyond to read this selection, and summer is the perfect time to get started.”   

Julian Hayter, assistant professor of leadership studies and member of the committee, nominated this book for consideration.

“Even before it was selected for One Book, I considered using "Evicted" for my Justice and Civil Society course,” said Hayter. “I’m interested in analyzing the modern urban crisis and the invisibility of urban poverty. I’m also really into thinking about how structural economic forces and social customs dictate where people can and cannot live."

Desmond will visit campus in February to present the Edward C. and Mary S. Peple Library Lecture, sponsored by the University Libraries and the Friends of Boatwright Memorial Library. This event is scheduled for Feb. 1, 2017, at 5 p.m. in Cannon Memorial Chapel. A reception and book signing will follow in the Atrium of Gottwald Science Center.   

For more information, visit the One Book, One Richmond website. 

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