Are you in a reading slump or looking to add some new books to your list for the year? Houston’s literary scene continues to thrive. I’ve rounded up some of the best books that came out from Houston authors last year. Also, I have ones that are forthcoming in 2024 that you can look forward to!
The Best Fiction
Award-winning and best-selling novelist Bryan Washington is so great at portraying Houston in his books. His latest novel, “Family Meal,” follows two young men who were once best friends. Cam, who is dealing with losing the love of his life, returns home to Houston. There, he is reunited with his long lost best friend TJ. Can their friendship be put back together again?
The Best Memoir
Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton completely transcends the definition of memoir as she follows her journey as a Black girl in America. Her memoir, named one of the best books by Black authors last year, combines myths and traditions drawn from all over the world. The book revolves around this question: It's often said that Black women are magic, but what if they really are mythological?
The Best Poetry
In Reyes Ramirez's poetry debut, he explores what it means to be a first-generation American of Salavadorian and Mexican descent. He explores these questions through the voice of an astronaut, drag queen, family members, tennis player, and even a turtle. You’ll find Ramirez’s collection of poetry funny and thought-provoking.
The Best Young Adult
Jasminne Mendez pens this middle-grade fiction novel around Aniana, a 12-year-old Dominican American swimmer who is diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. Aniana and her doctor believe that swimming alongside medication will help her manage her disease. However, Aniana and her dad must keep her swimming practices a secret from her mom, who is still dealing with grief over a loved one who died in the water years ago.
The Best Books Coming in 2024
Next month check out, “The Things We Didn’t Know,” by Elba Iris Pérez, which explores a young girl’s childhood between Puerto Rico and Massachusetts. In March, grab a copy of Peter L. Scamardo II’s novel, “The Flyers,” which follows Ellie and the Falco family, one of Texas’ largest land barons. Mark your calendar for May when he discusses his book at Brazos Bookstore. In April, you’ll want to read Babette Fraser Hale’s searing love story “This Familiar Heart” describing her turbulent courtship with the late Houston Post columnist Leon Hale.
Now, that you have all those book recs, make sure to buy a copy at one of Houston’s cozy bookstores. What other recs did I miss?
