‘A Legacy of Rage’ in Waco
Fort Worth author Jeff Guinn offers a compelling account of the 1993 tragedy that still casts shadows on our political landscape today.
book reviews
‘Girlhood,’ Interrupted
In a new memoir, a mother recounts the trauma of being investigated for supporting her trans daughter.
Dissent is Sexy
150 romance writers unite for abortion rights in a limited-release anthology benefiting reproductive health organizations.
Houston’s ‘Librotraficante’ Calls on Chicanos to Combat Censorship
In his unusual new book, “The Tip of the Pyramid,” Tony Diaz preaches the need for “cultural accelerators” to combat right-wing reaction.
The Woman Behind Ann Richards
In her memoir "Hope and Hard Truth," Mary Beth Rogers reveals the political grit and big heart that helped elect a legendary governor.
A Brief History of Junk Science and Bad Forensics
“Texas has a long history with the use of unreliable evidence. [It also has made] unique efforts to address that searing history.”
‘The Fishermen and the Dragon’ Uncovers Racist Conflict in Galveston Bay History
A new nonfiction book reveals dark details of a clash between white and Vietnamese shrimpers, corporate polluters, and the KKK in Texas.
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Ann Richards’ Legacy Is a Light for Dark Times
The "One Ann Only," a new collection of photographs and quotes, captures the unforgettable singularity of Texas’ last Democratic governor.
Heroin, Cornell, Prison, and Journalism
In ‘Corrections in Ink,’ star criminal justice reporter Keri Blakinger skillfully tells the story of her own unusual life.
The Observer Recommends 10 Texas Books of 2021
From correcting the record on racism and Texas history, to queer love on the border, to the #MeToo movement in federal courts, we rounded up some of our favorite books this year.