Previous Literature Selections

Common Literature Experience
Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the students and the community reading When the Emperor was Divine?

This book was chosen because it explores a period of American History when our country struggled with issues very similar to those we face today. The book raises issues of the conflict between freedom and security, and it also lends itself to a discussion of the figurative walls we raise to separate groups of people in our society. The characters are Japanese-Americans who were placed in the Topaz internment camp near Delta, Utah, during World War II. Students enrolled in English 1010 will also use the book as part of the course writings and discussions, and students may find that other instructors incorporate all or part of the book as well.

How was this book selected?

This book was selected by a group of faculty, staff, and administrators who reviewed books suggested by the campus and community at large, as well as books used by summer reading programs at universities across the country. The group initially narrowed the long list of books to about twenty, then further narrowed the list to seven. The University community was invited to read and provide feedback about the seven books. Ultimately, the committee was unanimous in selecting this book for this year. When the Emperor was Divine is used by other universities across the country, and the committee felt it was a particularly strong choice, considering the Utah connections.

What criteria were used in selecting the title?

The book has a strong narrative line and is one that students and faculty will, we hope, enjoy reading. The book is relevant to students' experiences as they will read about a family adapting to new circumstances, and the book touches on issues of transition, change, and diversity. Moreover, the book addresses an important moment in Utah history, while providing insight into contemporary issues. The committee also hopes to achieve a variety of titles over the years for the Literature Experience. The first book was a collection of poems by May Swenson; the second book was a biography, Hope in the Unseen: An American Odyssey from the Inner City to the Ivy League. This year, the committee chose a novel. In addition, the book has an American focus and contains themes that are relevant to our lives today.

What else is going on, relating to the book?

The university is inviting the Cache Valley community, parents of incoming students, and alumni to join in reading this book, so that the literature experience becomes a community-wide experience. Capping this joint reading will be a speech by the author of the book, Julia Otsuka, on Saturday, August 27 at 9:30 a.m. in the Kent Concert Hall on the Utah State University campus. We are also working on a theatrical performance related to the book, and a few lucky students will have the opportunity to have lunch with Ms. Otsuka when she comes to campus. See the "Lunch with Author" Essay Contest for more information.

Why would students find this book relevant to their experience?

This book addresses a critical moment in American and Utah history, as well as issues of freedom and security. As we learn to live in a post-9/11 world, we must all ponder the choices and issues facing us. In addition, the book demonstrates adapting to a strange environment, which is an issue particularly pertinent to first-year students.

Is the book required for the course?

Yes, the book is required for the course, but you do not need to be enrolled in Connections in order to read the book. In fact, parents, alumni, and community members are enthusiastically encouraged to join us in reading the book and are invited to attend Julie Otsuka's presentation on Saturday, August 27 at 9:30 a.m. in the Kent Concert Hall on the Utah State University campus.

Is there an assignment connected to the book?

Yes, there is a journal assignment required for the Connections course. Students should consult the Connections Web site for more specific requirements and note that students enrolled in particular sections of Connections (such as Honors or leadership) will complete slightly different assignments.

What if I have a book that I think is a better choice?

Suggestions for future titles are welcome. Please provide them to the selection committee for future consideration. Each fall, the committee will issue a community-wide call for suggestions for the next book. In the meantime, you can e-mail your suggestions to Noelle Call at noelle.call@usu.edu.