Central Iowa DSA Reading Group
About our reading group
Reading groups have been a backbone of socialist organizing for generations: they connect our lived sense that “something’s not right” to a shared analysis and a plan for action. Our group follows the simple, people-first practices in “How to Run a Socialist Reading Group”: short readings, inclusive facilitation, and space for everyone to speak. You don’t have to finish the book to join—come for the conversation and community.
When & where: Last Sunday of each month, 4:00–6:00 PM Location: Moberg Gallery, Des Moines (wheelchair accessible)
Next meeting:
Sunday, September 28, 2025 • 4:00 PM at Moberg Gallery
Join the Reading Group List
Get monthly reminders, the reading announcement, and discussion questions in your inbox.
What to expect
- Low-pressure & welcoming. We begin with names and quick check-ins; basic questions are encouraged.
- Everyone gets airtime. Facilitators make room for new voices and keep things moving.
- Short, focused discussions. We aim for ~90 minutes with 2–4 guiding questions.
- Show up as you are. You’re invited whether you’ve read every page or just want to listen.
How we choose books
We prioritize nonfiction that a group can reasonably discuss in one sitting—works of history, theory, and polemic that speak to real organizing and the problems we’re trying to solve. Selections should be relevant to our project as socialists and help us sharpen strategy, connect issues, and build solidarity.
Suggest a book: We love member suggestions! See the criteria below, then add your pick via the sign-up form.
Selection criteria (quick checklist):
- Nonfiction and discussable in one meeting
- Feeds real organizing (history, strategy, political economy, movement analysis)
- Clear enough for newcomers; deep enough for longtime members
- Ideally available at the library or low-cost
Current Book
Bad Samaritans: The Myth of Free Trade and the Secret History of Capitalism — Ha-Joon Chang
Upcoming Books
We announce the next selection at each meeting. Have a recommendation that fits our criteria? Add it when you sign up!
Past Readings
- The Wretched of the Earth — Frantz Fanon
- The Black Jacobins — C.L.R. James
- The 18th Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte — Karl Marx
- Bowling Alone — Robert D. Putnam
- Let This Radicalize You — Kelly Hayes & Mariame Kaba
- The Shock Doctrine — Naomi Klein
- Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee — Dee Brown
Ready to get involved with Central Iowa DSA beyond the reading group?