Many people don't realize it, but Houston is a great place for writers. The Bayou City has inspired a wide range of popular authors, from Larry McMurtry (Lonesome Dove, Terms of Endearment and dozens of other novels) to Justin Cronin (The Passage and The Twelve, which comes out in October). This special series highlights the thriving Houston book scene, with excerpts of books by Houston writers, interviews and information about literary happenings at Inprint, the University of Houston Creative Writing Program, the Houston Public Library, local bookstores and related organizations. The ongoing series focuses on a wide range of books, from literary adaptations to mainstream books with appeal to the general reader. The one thing they all have in common: Each book was written by a Houstonian or someone with strong Texas ties.

From time to time the series will also include interviews with authors who are making Houston appearances as well as what new or classic books notables are reading.