It is a Columbia tradition that the incoming class in each undergraduate school reads a book over the summer to be discussed in their first weeks on campus. These books will be presented during COLUMBIA 101 events and, for those unable to attend, will be given to students during their first advising appointment in the fall.

Columbia College

Iliad
Books 1-12, Lattimore (2011) Translation

For those who wish to read the Iliad in advance of receiving their copy from the University, note that the book is available through the Columbia University library to students with an active UNI and an established UNI password. Please log in and search under “Title” for the Iliad, then click on "All Electronic Resources" in the righthand column under "Limit Your Search." 

Those who do not yet have a UNI may access the Iliad online in numerous e-books, provided free of charge. Please note that each translation varies slightly but will provide the basic information to be discussed.

The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science

Where Good Ideas Come From: The Natural History of Innovation
by Steven Johnson

Check with your local library for availability if you wish to preview this book.