Join the Moby-Dick Book Club, a virtual three-part series exploring Herman Melville’s iconic American novel. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or returning to it with fresh eyes, all are welcome to take part in engaging, thought-provoking conversations led by some of the world’s leading Melville scholars.

Marina Wells, Assistant Curator of History & Culture, will moderate the series, which meets virtually on the third Tuesday of the month in September, October, and November 2025 from 5:30 to 6:30pm. These sessions will prepare readers for the 30th Moby-Dick Marathon at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, taking place on January 3, 2026.

Each session centers on a guiding theme and includes a suggested reading schedule—but participants are encouraged to read at their own pace and join when they can. Bring your thoughts, questions, and interpretations to share with fellow readers and Melville experts alike.

Virtual Session Schedule:

Tuesday, September 16, at 5:30pm
Extracts to Chapter 47
Theme: Making Meaning in Moby-Dick
Featured Guests: Professors Tony McGowan & Tim Marr

Tuesday, October 21 at 5:30pm
Chapter 48 to Chapter 95
Theme: Race, Nation, and Representation
Featured Guests: Professors Bob Wallace & Wyn Kelley

Tuesday, November 18 at 5:30pm
Chapter 96 to the Epilogue
Theme: Melville and the Ocean
Featured Guests: Professors Mary K. Bercaw Edwards & Jennifer Baker