Formulary Book Club: Code Name Verity

Ilona Owens, Senior Director of the Office of Student Affairs, has our February ’25 book recommendation

Story by Sarah Clark | Photo by Danny Alexander | Published February 25, 2025

The Formulary Book Club series introduces a student, staff, faculty, or alumni of the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy and gets their recommendation for a great read. 

This month’s recommendation comes to us from Ilona Owens, M.A., the Director of the Office of Student Affairs. Ilona’s Formulary Book Club recommendation is Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein.

This historical fiction, written in 2012, takes us back to Europe during World War II. The story begins after a British spy plane carrying two women, the pilot and a spy, crashes in Nazi-occupied France. “It is a beautifully written story that explores courage and failure, honor and betrayal, and enduring friendship,” says Ilona. Not to mention, it is also full of twists and turns and unexpected truths.

“I enjoyed this book despite many tears because it is a beautiful reminder of the power of friendship, honesty, and integrity,” shares Ilona. “The world is a complicated place in which we never quite seem to learn all the lessons from the past. This book reminds the reader of the power we have as individuals and as friends, to live and die on our terms.” 

This book was only recently put on Ilona’s radar after her neighbor recommended it to her. This happened to be a great match for Ilona, as she most enjoys fiction, unexpected adventures, and a good surprise. 

Ilona is currently Senior Director of Student Affairs at the Eshelman School of Pharmacy, where she focuses on student success. The Office of Student Affairs is constantly busy fostering the growth of students through experiential education programs and activities beyond the classroom. Ilona and her team oversee programs such as tutoring and registration, student well-being, and student support services including career, counseling, and financial aid. “I’ve had the joy of working in almost every aspect of student affairs and love my role at the School,” she explains. “It is the perfect compilation of previous experiences and has afforded me the opportunity to work with truly remarkable students, faculty, and staff.”

In her spare time, Ilona enjoys all life has to offer, like hiking, watching movies, her family, and not to mention, reading!  

Thank you, Ilona, for the book recommendation.