The One Book Program Evolves with “The Sixth Extinction”
Bryn Dotson, assistant editor
After the dinosaurs went extinct, scientists held a devastating asteroid responsible. This catastrophic event is known as the “fifth extinction.” It is estimated by scientists between 150-200 species of plants, insects, and mammals become extinct every day. Now, humans are the asteroid.
Elizabeth Kolbert, an environmental journalist and author of this year’s One Book choice, The Sixth Extinction, explains the major role humans are playing in mass extinction. Kolbert states, “To argue that the current extinction event could be averted if people just cared more and were willing to make more sacrifices is not wrong, exactly; still, it misses the point. It doesn’t much matter whether people care or don’t care. What matters is that people change the world.”
The One Book Program hopes to encourage students, faculty, staff, and community members to engage in open dialogue and communication about the year’s book choice. Associate Professor of English and Co-Chair of the One Book Committee Tamara Whyte says, “I love that the One Book Program allows for the college to discuss a book across courses and disciplines. The events get students engaged outside of the classroom.”
Students vote on a book in the spring semester. This is PVCC’s 5th year participating in the One Book. This year’s book aims to enlighten readers on the impact everyday activities can have on our planet. Director of Library Services Crystal Newell, co-chair alongside Whyte, says, “This book will make you think about how small actions, like traveling to another country, affect other species, and how we as the human race affect the world around us.”
Along with incorporating the book into classes and curriculums, the One Book Program will be hosting events that correspond with the book’s material. One Book will host a Meatless Monday event on Sept. 17, a no-shopping day on Oct. 10, and a recycling event on Nov. 5. There will also be guest speakers and other events to be announced later in the semester.
Students can get their free copy of the book from the PVCC library.
Learn more about the One Book on the library’s website: https://www.pvcc.edu/student-services/library/one-book-program. Students are invited to join the One Book Facebook group as well: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pvcconebook/.
