Shelley Read's internationally bestselling novel “Go as a River” follows Victoria Nash through love, loss and resilience in western Colorado. The story draws inspiration from the history of Iola, a small Gunnison River town flooded during the creation of Blue Mesa Reservoir.
Colorado Mountain College marks state's 150th with bestselling Colorado novel
Pick up a copy of “Go as a River” before meeting author Shelley Read throughout CMC’s district this October
As Colorado celebrates the 150th anniversary of statehood, Colorado Mountain College has selected author Shelley Read's internationally bestselling novel “Go as a River” as its 2026 Common Reader, bringing the author to eight communities throughout CMC’s district this October.
Set on Colorado’s Western Slope, “Go as a River” follows Victoria Nash, a young woman whose life is transformed by love, loss and the forces that reshape her life.
Inspired by the true story of Iola, a small Gunnison River town flooded during the creation of the Blue Mesa Reservoir in the 1960s, the novel explores resilience and the enduring relationship between people and place.
Colorado Mountain College selected the novel as part of its recognition of the state’s sesquicentennial, inviting students, employees and community members to explore a story steeped in Colorado’s landscapes and history.
Since its publication, “Go as a River” has become an international bestseller, with more than a million copies sold worldwide. It has been translated into dozens of languages and is now in development as a feature film.
Shelley Read, a fifth-generation Coloradan, will discuss “Go as a River,” her writing process and what inspired the novel during free author presentations and book signings from Oct. 17-27 Edwards, Salida, Leadville, Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs, Rifle, Aspen and Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs.
Complimentary copies of “Go as a River” are available while supplies last at CMC’s 11 campuses. Additional copies may be available through libraries, ebook lending services and bookstores. Community members are encouraged to read the book before attending the author's presentation.
Additional information about Colorado Mountain College's Common Reader program, author presentations and related events is available at Common Reader or by contacting Kari Brown, CMC special projects coordinator.