NEHS has officially announced its 2025–2026 Common Readers, and this year’s selections promise to ignite passionate discussions and inspire profound reflections in classrooms across the nation and around the world. The chosen works are Angie Cruz’s How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water and Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library—two compelling narratives that delve into themes of resilience, identity, and the transformative power of choice.
The selection of How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water and The Midnight Library as NEHS Common Readers sets the stage for a year rich in literary exploration and personal growth for students. These narratives, each unique in voice and perspective, offer students a chance to delve into stories that challenge, inspire, and resonate. NEHS encourages all chapters to embrace these works, participate in the upcoming webinar, and take advantage of the resources available to enrich their literary journey.
How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water by Angie Cruz
Angie Cruz’s How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water introduces readers to Cara Romero, a mid-fifties Dominican immigrant navigating the challenges of job loss during the Great Recession. Told through a series of government-mandated job counseling sessions, Cara’s voice emerges with wit, resilience, and unfiltered honesty. The narrative explores themes of immigration, displacement, economic struggle, and the pursuit of dignity in an unforgiving system. This work marks a significant milestone as the first NEHS Common Reader authored by a Latinx author, offering overdue recognition to the Latinx community.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library presents a thought-provoking exploration of life’s infinite possibilities. The story follows Nora Seed, who, facing despair, discovers a library that allows her to experience alternate versions of her life. Through Nora’s journey, the novel delves into themes of regret, hope, and the choices that define our existence. Haig’s narrative invites readers to reflect on the paths not taken and the potential for change at any moment.
Copies of each text can be purchased from Bookshop.org.
Exclusive Webinar with Angie Cruz
NEHS is hosting a free webinar for all student members featuring award-winning author Angie Cruz. This event offers students and educators a unique opportunity to engage with Cruz, gaining insights into her creative process and the themes explored in her work. Details about the webinar, including registration information, will be available on the NEHS website soon.
Free Copies Available to Chapters
To support the integration of these texts into NEHS chapter life, NEHS is offering one free copy of either or both Common Readers to Chapter Advisors. This initiative aims to facilitate meaningful discussions and enhance literary engagement among students. Supplies are limited and copies will only be made available to chapters that can demonstrate active use of the texts. Only one Chapter Advisor per school can apply. The deadline to apply is May 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. (CT).
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