March 23, 2018
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:
This year marks the 10th year of our common reading program at Mississippi State, and the Maroon Edition Planning Committee and I are pleased to announce that John Grisham’s “Calico Joe” is our book selection for 2018.
A 1977 graduate, John is one of the world’s best-selling writers, and he is also a great friend to his alma mater. He played a pivotal role in our launch of the Maroon Edition program in 2009, when our campus community together read his novel, “A Painted House.” We look forward to welcoming him back at Fall Convocation in August.
I hope that all of our incoming freshmen and transfers -- and many of you -- will read “Calico Joe” before the fall semester begins, and also participate in related activities planned for the upcoming academic year.
Every incoming freshman or transfer student attending an Orientation session this spring or summer will receive a copy of “Calico Joe,” and it is available to everyone through Barnes & Noble on campus and from other bookstores and online booksellers. Information about other Maroon Edition special events will be posted at http://maroonedition.msstate.edu
“Calico Joe” tells a timeless story that raises important questions about forgiveness, the complicated relationships between children and their parents, and baseball. I believe you will find your time well spent as this story unfolds.
Sincerely,
Mark E. Keenum, President
Mississippi State University