Three That Matter asks a simple question: Which three books have mattered most to you?
Following its initial launch in January 2026, this bookstore initiative has returned as an annual celebration of the books that have shaped members of our campus community.
Each week, a different member of the University community will share three books that have stayed with them, books they return to, wrestle with, or continue to think about long after the final page. The featured titles will be available through the University of Lethbridge Bookstore at a 20 per cent discount.
Together, these selections offer a glimpse into the ideas and stories that have shaped the people who teach, learn, work, and study here.
Three That Matter is an invitation to discover the people behind the reading lists, encounter something new, and maybe find a book that matters to you, too.
Royal Adkin's Three That Matter
Book one: The True Spirit and Original Intent of Treaty 7 by Walter Hildebrandt, Sarah Carter and Dorothy First Rider
Why it matters
I chose this book because Treaty 7 Day occurred on September 22. Treaties are an interesting topic. This book does a great job at exploring how the government and Indigenous Peoples viewed the treaties in a very different way. It also helps to respect local perspectives when it comes to treaty signing.
Book two: First Nations Self Government: 17 Roadblocks to Self Determination, and One Chief's Thoughts on Solutions by Leroy Paul Wolf Collar
Why it matters
I chose this book because Leroy Wolf Collar played a big role in helping me to better understand my cultural identity. In my conversations with him, I learned the importance of consensus building when making decisions and working in Indigenous communities. Leroy is a lifelong learner and I thought this was a great chance to promote some of his thoughts and ideas.
Book three: Rez Rules: My Indictment of Canada's and America's Systemic Racism Against Indigenous Peoples by Clarence Louie
Why it matters
I chose this book because Clarence is a ULethbridge Graduate who is a strong advocate for reclaiming Indigenous identity and advocating for economic prosperity. He's a leader in his community, he has come up multiple times in conversations and I find that my mind often drifts to concepts that he explores in his book. Indigenous communities are municipal sized, but they are federally supported — which can create a series of interesting and unique challenges. I think the combination of Rez Rules; combined with Clarence Louie's real-world leadership in his community, compelled me to choose this book as my third choice.