A book review by Nhora Serrano, director of academic technology, teaching, and research services, is featured in the American Civil Liberties Union’s 2026 Back-to-School Bookshelf, a national reading list highlighting books that engage with civil liberties, civil rights, and the work of building a more perfect union.
Serrano recommends Isabel Allende’s acclaimed novel The House of the Spirits (La Casa de los Espíritus), a multigenerational story set against Chile’s political and social upheaval. Serrano highlights the novel’s themes of women’s voices, resistance, memory, storytelling and solidarity, and the importance of protecting the freedom to read and tell difficult stories.
The ACLU’s 2026 Bookshelf brings together recommendations from authors, artists, and creators from across the country, including Alyssa Milano, Jason Reynolds, and Maulik Pancholy. Read the full ACLU Back-to-School Bookshelf on the ACLU website.
Posted September 23, 2026
