Knox College's faculty are not only dedicated educators but also active researchers and artists whose works contribute to a variety of academic fields. 

Five professors had books published since the start of the 2023-24 academic year, reflecting a rich array of themes, from criminal justice reform to political ideology, and from the intersection of religion and science fiction to innovative teaching methods. These professors continue influencing their fields and inspiring their students through their writing, reinforcing Knox College’s commitment to intellectual engagement and scholarly excellence.

“Carrying a book manuscript through to publication, especially in the face of the challenges in academia over the past few years, is a special achievement,” Provost and Dean of the College Michael Schneider added. “The variety of these works is joy in itself, while also serving as a testament to the broad versatility and creativity of Knox’s faculty.”

Recent publications by Knox faculty include: 

A Pedagogy of Kindness

Author: Catherine Denial, Mary Elizabeth Hand Bright and Edwin Winslow Bright Distinguished Professor of American History
Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press

Bright Distinguished Professor of American History Catherine Denial’s A Pedagogy of Kindness challenges academia's competitive, often harsh environment by advocating for a radical shift towards kindness in higher education. Denial argues that true kindness, distinct from mere niceness, should be at the heart of teaching and learning. Combining memoir, manifesto, and practical guide, she offers actionable strategies for reshaping classroom practices to prioritize care and compassion. Denial’s book is a call to transform higher education into a space where all participants—students and instructors alike—can thrive through mutual respect and understanding.

The Scotsman

Author: Rob Smith, John and Elaine Fellowes Professor in English
Publisher: Black Spring Press

Professor of English Rob Smith’s The Scotsman introduces readers to Chic Cowan, a tough Glasgow detective on a quest for justice in the United States following the murder of his daughter. Set against the backdrop of a divided America, the novel is a gripping tale of the search for truth. Drawing on the traditions of Scottish Tartan Noir, Smith’s work critically explores contemporary social issues, making The Scotsman a compelling read for fans of the genre.

Legitimating Nationalism: Political Ideology in Russia’s Ethnic Republics

Author: Katie Stewart, Associate Professor of Political Science
Publisher: University of Wisconsin Press

In Legitimating Nationalism: Political Ideology in Russia’s Ethnic Republics, Associate Professor of Political Science Katie Stewart explores the complexities of nation-building in Russia's diverse regions. Focusing on Karelia, Tatarstan, and Buryatia, Stewart examines how these ethnic republics navigate their unique identities within the broader context of Russian nationalism, especially under the centralizing influence of President Vladimir Putin. This book offers a nuanced understanding of how regional and national identities are constructed and contested, providing valuable insights into the political landscape of one of the world’s most complex nations.

Religion and Science Fiction: An Introduction

Author: James H. Thrall, Knight Distinguished Chair Emeritus for the Study of Religion & Culture
Publisher: Routledge

Knight Distinguished Chair Emeritus for the Study of Religion & Culture James H. Thrall’s Religion and Science Fiction: An Introduction is a comprehensive guide for students and instructors exploring the intersection of these seemingly disparate fields. The textbook introduces key concepts in religious studies through analysis of science fiction literature and media, offering students a unique lens to examine religious themes. With discussion questions, key terms, and extensive resources, Thrall’s book is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in understanding how religion and science fiction converge to tackle profound questions about existence, morality, and the human experience.

Reckoning with Restorative Justice: Hawai‘i Women’s Prison Writing

Author: Leanne Trapedo Sims, Daniel J. Logan Professor of Peace and Justice
Publisher: Duke University Press

In Reckoning with Restorative Justice: Hawai‘i Women’s Prison Writing, Daniel J. Logan Professor of Peace and Justice Leanne Trapedo Sims delves into the lives of women incarcerated at the Women’s Community Correctional Center, the only women’s prison in Hawai‘i. Through a blend of ethnography, literary analysis, and criminal justice critique, Trapedo Sims brings to light the often-overlooked stories of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women. Her work not only highlights the specific experiences of these women but also resonates with broader themes of racial disparity and injustice within the American prison system. This book is a powerful contribution to discussions on restorative justice and the disproportionate incarceration of people of color.

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An overview of faculty-published books from recent years can be found on the Knox website.