FSU Panama City is inviting all students and Bay County residents to participate in a discussion of journalism as a higher calling through a community read focusing on Kristina McMorris’ “Sold on a Monday.” 

The New York Times best-selling author will kick of the community-wide book club during a luncheon and book signing 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 24, in FSU Panama City’s Holley Lecture Hall. English instructor Milinda Stephenson, Ph.D., will continue the discussion during a book club-style conversation at 6 p.m. Monday. Oct. 1, in the Bland Conference Center.

“This community read will allow our extended Seminole family to come together for a common interest and discussion,” said Randy Hanna, dean of FSU Panama City. “We hope the book will facilitate a discussion of fact vs. fiction, the consequences of a snap decision and journalism as a higher calling.”

Kristina McMorris is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author. Inspired by true personal and historical accounts, her novels have garnered more than 20 national literary awards and include “Letters from Home,” “Bridge of Scarlet Leaves,” “The Pieces We Keep” and “The Edge of Lost,” in addition to novellas in the anthologies “A Winter Wonderland” and “Grand Central.” 

Her latest book, “Sold on a Monday,” was inspired by a heart-wrenching newspaper photo of a Chicago mother offering her four young children for sale in 1948. The book tells the story of young journalist Ellis Reed as he faces the consequences of a career-making decision. 

Registration for the luncheon, which includes a signed copy of the book, is $35 for the general public. FSU and Gulf Coast State College students will be admitted free with student ID.

To register for the event, contact Michelle Roberson at (850)770-2150.