On Monday, April 22, 2024, acclaimed writer Pico Iyer returned to Chapman University for Searching for Paradise: Pico Iyer in Conversation with Jim Doti. This event inspired the Leatherby Libraries to curate a bibliography and display of books authored by Iyer to celebrate the legacy of his written works. 

Iyer is a notable essayist and novelist who specializes in the field of travel literature. Iyer’s writings encourage readers to take a holistic view of life by analyzing their internal frameworks and the world around them. He sees travel as a transformative journey that encourages a spiritual connection with oneself and the world while fostering the personal growth and evolution of one’s ideologies.

Pico Iyer (left) and Dean Kevin Ross (right) pose beside the Searching for Paradise book display at the Reference Desk.

Pico Iyer is a notable author of over 15 books and countless other works. The Leatherby Libraries’ display “Searching for Paradise: A Collection of Works by Pico Iyer” shows the range of Iyer’s writing with books exploring the value of traveling the world in “Video Night in Kathmandu” and “The Global Soul” and books like “The Art of Stillness” that emphasize the importance of self-understanding. In The Global Soul, Iyer examines the idea of home and how much identity has shifted in recent years because of rising globalization. He talks about his identity as a tourist and how that has allowed him to see the world through an interconnected cultural lens. The theme of identity flows throughout his works, as Iyer encourages introspective looks at how to connect oneself with others. 

During his recent visit to Chapman University, Iyer generously signed all the books from the Searching for Paradise reference desk display. Those interested in viewing this display’s bibliography may access it here.

This display was curated by Leatherby Libraries student employees Isabella Piechota ’25, Arianna Tillman ’25, and Kalea Brown ’26.

The Leatherby Libraries’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts align with the Chapman University Strategic Plan for Diversity & Inclusion, fostering a diverse and inclusive campus climate.