University of Texas Austin - Cactus Yearbook (Austin, TX)

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New book by James A. Michener to explore history, culture of state as Texas begins to celebrate Sesquicentennial 6yTOMTRAHAN Michener was designated by the UT System Board of Regents as the Jack G. Taylor Professor Emeritus. He came to Austin in October 1982 to work on a major novel about Texas, and had been using the Barker Texas History Center at the University which is the nation ' s major research col- lection of Texana as well as graduate research assistants. Michener ' s book was due for publication in 1986, the Texas celebration of its Sesquicentennial. Concerning his intention to work permanently with the University, Michener said, For the past two years I have Carefully inspecting illustrations, Shaw, Michener and Kings select art for Michener ' s latest novel, Texas. Photos by Sandy Wilson With the Texas Capitol on the horizon behind him, America ' s most wide- ly read novelist, James Michener, surveys the Austin skyline. Photo by Sand Wilson enjoyed a fine relationship with the University here in Austin, and now accept most warmly the opportunity to continue and expand the association. The University and the State of Texas provide a stimulating pla ce to work, and I look forward eagerly to the challenging days ahead. Yet the challenge and stimulation seem to emanate more from Michener than the UT atmosphere. Since coming to Austin, Michener raised the awareness around campus about topics as diverse as writing, the Sesquicentennial and the im- portance of taking in one ' s surroundings. He accomplished this awareness by free appearances on campus and statements in the extensive media coverage he attracted. Other novels by James Michener have catalogued the histories of several U.S. regions in a documentary fictional form that brought the histories of those geographic areas to life. Photo by Joseph Jaworski Opening 15

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BLUEPRINT FOR THE SECOND CENTURY