I am going to assume the book you are referring to is Acts of Faith. This was sent out by the Illini Union to incoming students as part of the One Book, One Campus initiative. The Illini Union’s One Book, One Campus program hopes to provide a shared experience for our community. Through reading the same book community members will have the opportunity to engage in dialogue and explore various themes.
Is it required? Well you won't be tested in class if that is what you are asking, but it is a shared experience you will have with your fellow classmates. If you have any further questions about the book you can direct them to the Illini Union.