When it comes to Texas politics, it’s easy for progressives to lash out at the far right or wallow in despair among the like-minded. But Mary Beth Rogers has done something constructive instead: She’s spent years considering how to restore some kind of balance to the state’s political realm. Her new book is a blueprint for turning Texas blue, or at least giving Democrats a fighting chance.

In the spirit of furthering that constructive conversation, the Texas Observer has excerpted Rogers’ book, which you can click here to read, and will host a reading and Q&A with her on Wednesday, Feb. 10, in Dallas. We hope you’ll join us! Please RSVP to [email protected] or (512) 477-0746 x105.