nickjagged's review
3.0
A broad survey of Texas over the past ~75 years that is interesting, to a point. The sections on music and politics are standouts, vibrant and inviting, but the framing can be awkward at times. Easily the most accessible Texas history that I've read, and chock full of information I never picked up in my almost 20 years living there. However, the composition and sheer size of the state make any attempt towards ascribing a general "spirit" seem dewy if not cloying. Worth reading as a jumping-off point towards topics of greater depth.
canadajanes's review against another edition
4.0
Very enjoyable read, a lot of funny and accurate reminders of my time living in Texas. Only reason it isn't 5 stars is that it really goes off the rails in the last few chapters. It just loses steam and feels like the author is trying to figure out how to end the book.
captaincocanutty's review against another edition
4.0
Neat and considering perspective on Texas. Really appreciated that the author was able to see the bright and dark sides of the states, and it was interesting seeing some similarities between this and what I've seen/heard in my own family.
revdavidstippick's review against another edition
challenging
funny
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
ethancramer's review against another edition
5.0
After a decade living in Texas and often hating it, Lawrence Wright put words to a few of things that I do really like about the state.
chelseela's review against another edition
5.0
A refreshing take on the long and complicated history of the State of Texas.
nicolemhill's review against another edition
4.0
I finally picked this up as a palate cleanser/clarifier after this absurd legislative session.
Recommend the audiobook. Cannot recommend Texas.
Recommend the audiobook. Cannot recommend Texas.
dustinruns's review against another edition
5.0
Great read!
This book reminds me why I love Texas and of the many things that I miss now that I've moved away. The concept of Texas and being a "Texan" is more than a state of mind. It is a culture that you can only understand if you are a part of it. Lawrence Wright has done a great job of giving words to something that is hard for many native (and naturalized) Texans to explain.
Lawrence Wright argues that this book will help give context to the political changes that we are seeing in America today. I agree with him - having lived through many of those recent changes within Texas - that Texas is a place to look to be able to "read the tea leaves".
This book reminds me why I love Texas and of the many things that I miss now that I've moved away. The concept of Texas and being a "Texan" is more than a state of mind. It is a culture that you can only understand if you are a part of it. Lawrence Wright has done a great job of giving words to something that is hard for many native (and naturalized) Texans to explain.
Lawrence Wright argues that this book will help give context to the political changes that we are seeing in America today. I agree with him - having lived through many of those recent changes within Texas - that Texas is a place to look to be able to "read the tea leaves".