Author David McGlynn Will Release Liberal Arts
The Appleton professor examines the modern value of education in his upcoming novel.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Books
Author and professor David McGlynn will publish his new novel, Liberal Arts, on October 15, 2026. The book follows characters through their academic journey from orientation to graduation at a college modeled after Lawrence University.
Why it matters
The novel examines the tension between the ideals of a liberal arts curriculum and the realities faced by modern students. It offers a narrative exploration of what higher education means for those navigating their formative college years.
The narrative tracks characters over a span of four years, with one alumna character marking a return after fifty years of absence. This release follows the author's prior recognition via the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Wisconsin Library Association.
The players
David McGlynn
He is an author and faculty member at Lawrence University in Appleton who previously authored the novel Everything We Could Do.
Lawrence University
This is a private liberal arts college located in Appleton, Wisconsin, that serves as the inspiration for the fictional setting of the book.
Wisconsin Library Association
This professional organization previously honored the author with an Outstanding Achievement Award for his earlier work.
The details
Set at a fictional institution resembling Lawrence University, the story traces the academic progression of students from their first days on campus to their commencement. Author David McGlynn will support the launch with a tour stopping at bookstores in Appleton, Madison, and Milwaukee.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: The novel Liberal Arts will be released.
Industry Dynamics
This release reflects a broader trend of academic novelists using their professional environments as the backdrop for exploring institutional critiques. It highlights how regional authors continue to leverage local settings to engage with national debates about the efficacy of a liberal arts education.
Readers across Wisconsin can look forward to upcoming book tour appearances in Madison, Appleton, and Milwaukee. Those interested in the author's work can purchase the title starting in mid-October.
The takeaway
The novel invites readers to reflect on the long-term impact of their own undergraduate years. Those interested in campus literature may find the comparison to the real-life Lawrence University a compelling way to revisit the collegiate experience.
Further reading
Find more literary news and upcoming releases in the Books section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WFRV-TV Channel 5.
