The deluge of content covering every possible topic makes it harder, not easier, to become quickly familiar in a new area or stay up-to-date with new developments in an area of expertise. The challenge is compounded by shifting political and intellectual currents rehabilitating overlooked works and shining a spotlight on novel policy approaches. Through the Required Reading project, American Compass collaborates with experts engaged deeply on a topic or theme to create an annotated set of recommended (admittedly not required) sources.