In Context is a new thematically-organized reader, with readings that emphasize compelling, distinctive cultural issues and topics.

In Context has four broad thematic units: Searching for Authenticity, Establishing a Sense of Place, Participating in Civic Conversations, and Adapting to the Changing Economy. Each theme concludes with a case study that asks students to examine a single controversial event by evaluating surrounding documents (newspaper reports, legal briefs, as well as essays). Students then respond with their own synthesis and perspective. What sets In Context apart from other readers is (1) its emphasis on rhetorical issues—students are introduced to four rhetorical concepts: context, genre, language, and consequences, and (2) the fact that it goes beyond critiquing culture, to focus on how societies and individuals use writing and reading to do work, to achieve results. Assignments in the book encourage students to explore different genres — reports, letters to the editor, proposals, as well as essays.