January 2026 Alumni and Friends Virtual Book Club

Candide by Voltaire

Tuesday, January 6, 13, 20, 27
5:00 - 6:30 p.m. Central Time

There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. You will need to purchase a copy of the book.

Enrollment is limited to 40. First-come; first-served. 

From Good Reads: Candide is the story of a gentle man who, though pummeled and slapped in every direction by fate, clings desperately to the belief that he lives in "the best of all possible worlds." On the surface a witty, bantering tale, this eighteenth-century classic is actually a savage, satiric thrust at the philosophical optimism that proclaims that all disaster and human suffering is part of a benevolent cosmic plan. Fast, funny, often outrageous, the French philosopher's immortal narrative takes Candide around the world to discover that — contrary to the teachings of his distinguished tutor Dr. Pangloss - all is not always for the best. Alive with wit, brilliance, and graceful storytelling, Candide has become Voltaire's most celebrated work.

Discussion Leader(s):
Registration Deadline: December 30, 2025

 (*) - Required field