Ernesto Quintana, teacher, Kansas City, Mo.

“I like Michael Thomas Ford’s ‘Last Summer.’ It is a very entertaining read. It’s funny, and the characters are easy to relate to.”

Peter Jasso, director of the Kansas Film Commission, Lawrence

“‘Darkness Take My Hand’ by Dennis Lehane. He is a really solid mystery writer.”

Rick Caccino, self-employed, Lawrence

“‘Plato’s Republic’ by Socrates. It’s a good insight into the concept of democracy and civil life.”

Lydia Krug, Free State High School junior, Lawrence

“‘The Scarlet Letter’ by Nathaniel Hawthorne. I haven’t quite gotten into the language yet.”

Tina Bell, caterer, Lawrence

“I just got done with ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.’ The whole thing was fabulous.”