President's 2013 Book Selection

ABOUT THE BOOK...

In this heartwarming and empowering memoir, space pioneer Anousheh Ansari tells the story of her childhood in Iran and her family's exodus to America after the Islamic Revolution. After settling down in Texas, Anousheh built a computer technology firm from the ground up, which eventually realized a net worth of $750 million and ultimately allowed her to achieve her childhood dream of spaceflight.

As the first-ever female commercial spaceflight participant, her story became politicized and fraught with the prejudices and obstacles she had to overcome as an Iranian woman. Ultimately, this evocative story shows the triumph of a woman who has become a role model to people around the globe struggling to overcome economic and cultural barriers, as well as those dreamers who look upon the stars and wish to soar among them.


"In My Dream of Stars, Anousheh Ansari allows readers to experience the magic of space while sharing the triumphant story that brought her there. This is an awe-inspiring and heartwarming book."
—Buzz Aldrin, Astronaut, Apollo XI

Why should you participate

  • To share a common experience with other new students.
  • To prepare for intellectual life at the university level.
  • To make new friends and network with faculty.
  • To get an edge on the fall semester. This book is a required text for CLSS 1000 and many freshman English courses.*

*Book is included with CLSS 1000 course fee. Those registered for CLSS 1000 will receive further information on how to access an electronic copy of the book this summer. Students not taking CLSS 1000 may purchase the book at most major book retailers (UVU Bookstore link).

So, sharpen your reading skills, pick up a book, and be ready to make the most of your first year at college! All new freshmen, entering either summer or fall 2013, should read "My Dream of Stars" this summer.


Classical Book SelectionABOUT THE CLASSICAL BOOK SELECTION:

In addition to the primary freshman reading book selection, President Holland selects a classical selection for those students who desire to engage with a more complex text at a higher intellectual level. The classical selections for 2013-2014 are two of Plato's dialogues, "Crito" and "Apology." When dealing with antique texts, accurate translations are critical and there are multiple versions of Plato's dialogues available. UVU is utilizing the second edition of 'Five Dialogues' which present the well-respected translation by G.M.A. Grube, as revised by John Cooper (cover pictured at left).

The classical selection is also incorporated each year into UVU's Honors Program activities and presented in a theatrical production by UVU's theater department.