Divided into ten thematic sections, this freshman reader illuminates the ways in which lives connect in spite of the differences that derive from ethnicity, community, age, class, or gender. Contemporary and deeply involving for all students, these sections move from simple to more sophisticated concepts, for example from the issues surrounding family to language to identity. Each reading was carefully selected to expose students to lifestyles, values, concerns, and problems different from their own, while encouraging them to make meaningful contributions to class discussions and in their written assignments.