History Book Club #1: Reading about the histories of capitalism and communism through the eyes of whales, walruses, and wolves
The Department of Historical Studies hosted its first History Book Club this past semester. Ten history-curious UTM students—along with "honorary student" and biology professor Christoph Richter—joined history professors Caleb Wellum and Mairi Cowan to read the award-winning book, Floating Coast: An Environmental History of the Bering Strait by Bathsheba Demuth. Thanks to the Historical Studies Undergraduate Experience Fund, each student received a free copy of the book as well as plenty of food and drink to sustain lively conversations.
Students and faculty rediscovered the pleasure of reading history together as they dove into Demuth’s beautiful prose and provocative history of the Bering Strait. Over four weekly meetings, the book club evolved into a community of readers who exchanged ideas and explored new ways of thinking in a convivial book club environment. As one participant reflected: “Reading the book gave me insight into how exactly we fit into a broader context… highlight[ing] that history extends into natural history just as much as it does to human history.” Students also enjoyed forming a community where they could meet new people and hear different perspectives in a “no-stress, relaxed, and safe environment.” The free food and drink didn’t hurt either!
Another second History Book Club is being planned for the winter 2025 semester. More details and a registration link will be available soon.
