Join the World of Wellesley for our 2026 Community Book Read, featuring Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen by Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist José Antonio Vargas.

Jose Antonio Vargas was sent as a child from the Philippines to his grandparents in the US, only to discover when he applied for a learner’s permit as a teen, that he had come with false documents. In his memoir, Vargas describes his experience of living as an undocumented teen and adult in America, working to get an education and to become a journalist, and then having the courage to share his story publicly and advocate for millions of undocumented people. 

Our community discussion will explore the themes of identity, belonging, courage, and what it truly means to be an American. The evening will include excerpts from Vargas’ podcast, What It Means to Be an American, helping to spark a thoughtful, timely, and engaging conversation.