2025-2026 One Book One University Selection

The PNW One Book One University Committee has chosen the following book as the 2025-2026 selection:

“Why Fish Don’t Exist: A Story of Loss, Love and the Hidden Order of Life”

BY Lulu Miller

Part memoir, part scientific exploration, Miller’s critically acclaimed book delves into the life of taxonomist David Starr Jordan and questions how we make sense of the chaos in the natural world and our own lives.

Her investigative narrative invites readers to reflect on the intersection of science, curiosity and resilience.

Here’s what critics have to say about the book:

A Best Book of 2020: The Washington Post* NPR * Chicago Tribune* Smithsonian

• A “remarkable” (Los Angeles Times), “seductive” (The Wall Street Journal) debut from Lulu Miller, Why Fish Don’t Exist is a dark and astonishing tale of love, chaos, scientific  obsession, and—possibly—even murder.
• “At one point, Miller dives into the ocean into a school of fish … comes up for air, and  realizes she’s in love. That’s how I felt: Her book took me to strange depths I never imagined, and I was smitten.” -The New York Times Book Review

One Book One University On Campus

Throughout the 2025-2026 academic year, classes in all disciplines will feature “Why Fish Don’t Exist” in discussions and impactful assignments.

This webpage will be updated throughout the year, including learning resources, discussion guides and videos.

Please direct inquiries to Richard Rupp (rrupp@pnw.edu) or Raymond Kosinski (rksoinsk@pnw.edu).

Thanks to Our Selection Committee