OBOC is LAVC's common read program. Each academic year, a new book is selected, which is read throughout courses and across disciplines. The OBOC initiative cultivates opportunities for creativity, scholarship, critical thinking, and academic dialog. It creates a shared intellectual experience for students, faculty, administration and staff.
The OBOC program works to promote reading and equity in our campus community. Books are selected to support students' sense of belonging; increase successful outcomes of underperforming groups; and ensure a campus climate that supports diversity.
Book nominations are accepted year-round.
The LAVC Library has several print copies of The Distance Between Us on reserve for 3-day checkout. Visit the Library in person if you're interested in borrowing a copy. Ebook copies are also available.
The Los Angeles Public library also has copies of this book in a variety of formats including print, e-book, and e-audio.
What: Reyna Grande Author Talk
When: Tuesday, April 23rd, 11:30 a.m.
Where: Unity Center -- CC 127
About: Reyna Grande will appear in person to discuss The Distance Between Us. Author talk to be followed by a Q&A and book signing.
What: Student Project Showcase
When: Wednesday, May 8th, 12-4 p.m.
Where: LAVC Art Gallery
About: Annual event for students to showcase their work connected to this year's book, "The Distance Between Us." Four prizes will be awarded in four categories. Flyer for download.
Born in Mexico and raised by her grandparents after her parents left to find work in the U.S., at nine years old, Reyna enters the U.S. as an undocumented immigrant to live with her father. Filled with hope, she quickly realizes that life in America is far from perfect. Her father isn’t the man she dreamed about all those years in Mexico. His big dreams for his children are what gets them across the border, but his alcoholism and rage undermine all his hard work and good intentions. Reyna finds solace from a violent home in books and writing, inspired by the Latina voices she reads. After an explosive altercation, Reyna breaks away, going on to become the first person in her family to obtain a higher education, earning a B.A. and then an M.F.A. in Creative Writing.
At a time when immigration politics are at a boiling point in America, Reyna Grande is an important public voice for Mexican Americans and immigrants of every origin. The Distance Between Us has the power to change minds and hearts.
Reyna Grande: A Migrant's Story
