What to read — Physics is Phun or Tiger Beat? While university President Dan Mote’s reading list — and crush on Ashton Kutcher — may be deeper than yours, that doesn’t mean books are only good for riot fire fodder. In honor of midterms, here is a list of books newsmakers should check out.

STUDENTS AND THE PRESS

Short of riding in on Mote’s coattails, most students and the press won’t be getting into a riot meeting between university administrators and Prince George’s County Police. That’s where good ol’ fashioned sneaking and lying come in. Introduce yourself as Mote’s wife, the Student Government Association vice president of uselessness or the official pepper bullet sponsor of the county police. Add a name tag, a smarmy smile and you’re in.

Our recommendation: Sneaking In (Sweet Valley University, No. 42) by Francine Pascal

Amazon.com price: $2.95

STATE SENATORS

The riot was the hot topic in Annapolis this week, and we think legislators are simply jealous they can’t let loose on Route 1. After a long day of schmoozing with constituents, nothing is a better remedy for those stuffed shirts than jumping on cars, calling police “pigs” and getting tattooed in a late-night drunken blur. Just ask that one senator what he’s got drawn across his chest — you can bet it’s not a Maryland state flag.

Our recommendation: Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man’s Soul by John Eldredge

Amazon.com price: $14.95

TERRAPIN MEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM

The ACC tournament is just around the corner, but Gary’s boys sure aren’t acting like they know they’re champions. Testudo’s Troops may need a general who doesn’t overly show his emotions every time he misses a shot or when his Gatorade is warm. Here’s hoping the Clemson Tigers don’t have a taste for turtle. Again.

Our recommendation: Think like a Champion: A Guide to Championship Performance for Athletes in All Sports by Dick Devenzio

Amazon.com price: $30

COLLEGE PARK TOWNIES

Some city residents just don’t understand they live in a college town. They don’t like big house parties, loud music or people under the age of 75. But the city is a cultural mecca of sandwich shops, poorly lit streets and buildings that should have been razed 30 years ago. Residents who don’t appreciate the charm of their cozy little hovel should either put out or get out. Hey, it sure helps your chances of getting into those house parties.

Our recommendation: Teddy Bear’s Moving Day by Susanna Gretz

Amazon.com price: $2.01