UVa-Wise freshmen to read bestselling ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’

This fall, incoming freshmen at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise will read Mark Haddon’s acclaimed national bestseller, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.”

The community also is invited to join students, faculty and staff in reading the novel, which critics have called “gloriously eccentric and wonderfully intelligent.”

The UVa-Wise freshman reading is part of the College’s mission to help new students define their identities while exposing them to other cultures and points of view. Students will engage in discussions about the book and incorporate aspects of the novel in a variety of their classes.

“The reading is intended to engage freshmen in the culture of reading, writing and communication,” said Diane Silver, academic counselor and a member of the book selection committee. “I hope students will see it as a companion for their journey here at the College.”

Haddon’s novel was the Whitbread Book of the Year, a New York Times notable book and a “Today Show” Book Club selection. It features the story of Christopher John Francis Boone, a teenager with autism, on a quest to investigate the death of a neighborhood dog. Christopher, a mathematics genius, lacks an understanding of human emotions.

“His quest is more than a simple murder mystery,” said Elizabeth Steele, coordinator of advising, retention and assessment. “It turns out to be a voyage of self discovery.”

Haddon, a resident of Oxford, England, has written and illustrated several award-winning children’s books. Haddon worked with autistic individuals, and he teaches creative writing for the Arvon Foundation.

For more information, contact the Office of College Relations at 276-328-0130.

Posted July 21, 2008