Nikki Perry, shipping manager, Lawrence

“I’m reading ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,'” by Douglas Adams. It’s about people who travel through space and have wacky adventures.”

Jeff Jackson, musician, Lawrence

“I’m reading ‘What’s the Matter with Kansas?,’ by Thomas Frank. It’s about how Kansas started off as a more liberal state and how it became more conservative over the years.”

Tim Perdue, maintenance, Lawrence

“I’m reading ‘The Magic of Thinking Big,’ by David Schwartz. It’s basically about positive thinking on a large scale.”

Sam Gowthaman, Kansas University freshman, Lawrence

“I’m reading ‘The Big Sea,’ by Langston Hughes. It’s his autobiography.”

Carolina McKee, unemployed, Andale

“I’m reading ‘A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius,’ by Dave Eggers. It’s about an older and younger brother’s relationship after their parents die.”