Testimonials
Hamlet: June 2026
Vanessa J. 
"I joined the Hamlet cohort because I wanted to engage more deeply with Shakespeare. I was intimidated by the material at first, and I admit the reading proved difficult initially, but the first session put all my fears to rest. Even though I wasn't sure whether I had a lot to offer, the warmth of the participants and clear expectations and goals presented early on meant that I never felt lost or left behind. The group dynamic in The New Commons is really such a fantastic and enriching way to tackle a piece of literature. Lauren's facilitation style was warm and informative, and I looked forward to our sessions every week. I was excited to be challenged in my own opinions and assumptions, and often felt that the differing opinions enriched my own understanding of the text—of its complexities and nuances. I felt that I understood and even loved Hamlet by the end."
Elaine G. “Lauren’s careful instruction and excellent leadership inspired me to think more deeply about literature, language and the ways in which Shakespeare’s Hamlet, specifically, is as relevant today as it was four hundred years ago. I was reminded that literature belongs to me as much as it belongs to the experts, and that reading, exploring and questioning it intentionally, in community, is not merely educational but joyful and applicable to my life and work. I highly recommend The New Commons to book lovers everywhere. Lauren and the team have created something fresh, exciting and deeply meaningful. I can’t wait to return for more!”