For writers in search of a new book subject, a favorite gambit is to go back to college. They choose a course—usually on a book they’ve loved or an author they care about—and use it as a springboard for an updated exploration. But why should writers have all the fun? New York Historical is offering a four-part lecture series that lets us all revisit some classics—specifically, seven books that tell the story of America. The series begins with Uncle Tom’s Cabin and The Scarlet Letter, and ends with The Great Gatsby and The Sun Also Rises. Perhaps you can guess the three in between. Joseph Luzzi, the Asher B. Edelman Professor of Literature at Bard College, leads the monthly conversations. —Laura Jacobs

The Story of America in 7 Books is purchased in a four-month semester package and is available in person or through livestream.