Issue 69 // August 2024 // Welcome to Houston Edition
Hey everyone!
Cheers to the new school year! For those of you who may not know, my name is Sydney Rose and I am the current Executive Editor of Cooglife Magazine here at UH!
After being in this role for awhile now and spending many years aquainting myself with the University of Houston campus, I can’t wait for all of our new Coogs to get to know all of the fun and excitement that is to come with starting college and exploring the city of Houston.
Inside of this “Welcome to Houston” issue of
Letter From The Editor
Cooglife, there will be tips for every college student getting by, some history many may or ay not know about Houston itself, activities to try, food to eat and even books to read!
I want to thank all of the hardworking writers, photographers and graphic designers who put all of their creative energy into these projects for you to enjoy.
There is a lot to love about the UH campus and the city of Houston, and I cannot wait for all of you to make as many memories here as I did.
Meet new people, try new things, join new organziations (Cooglife
is always looking to expand its team if you’re interested!) and stay tuned for all that is to come with this chapter of life.
I’m excied for you all. I want to take the time to thank you for picking up this issue and giving it a look.
And if you managed to make it this far into reading my letter, then thanks for that too.
Have a good school year, Coogs.
As always, thanks for reading.
Sydney Rose
Executive Editor
Story by: Camila Sosa Chassaigne
There is something truly magical about exploring new places and creating lasting memories. Houston, better known as H-Town, ranks among the top five largest cities in the United States. This unique city offers a wide variety of fun activities that can be enjoyed not only with friends and family but also on your own, making every experience memorable.
From visiting historic art galleries and museums to exploring peaceful nature trails and parks, Houston has something for everyone, including its large population of college students. Whether you are seeking entertainment or looking to save a few bucks, this top 10 guide has you covered!
Visiting Museums
If you are someone who loves learning and appreciates the beauty of art and history, the Greater Houston area is a treasure trove, offering over 150 museums and cultural institutions. From art and history to science and nature, there is a museum
here for every curiosity.
The Museum of Fine Arts
Located in the Houston Museum District, The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is one of the largest museums in the United States and the oldest in Texas, with a permanent collection of over 70,000 objects. While regular admission is not always free, you can visit the MFAH Permanent Collections at no cost on Thursdays.
Additionally, if you consider yourself a creative person, there is even better news: students from any college or university can enjoy free admission any day the museum is open by presenting an art-related assignment and a college ID at the admissions desk.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Located on the northern border of Hermann Park, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the most heavily attended museums in the country. It features the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, Burke Baker Planetarium, Cockrell Butterfly Center, permanent exhibit halls and traveling exhibitions.
This enriching experience is accessible to everyone with free general admission available on a first-come, first-served basis from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesdays.
POST Houston
POST Houston, located just north of the Buffalo Bayou at Sesquicentennial Park, is a modern multi-use complex offering free admission. This dynamic space features a variety of dining options, retail shops, event spaces and a stunning rooftop park and farm.
Additionally, POST Houston includes a museum with changing exhibits and beautiful handmade artwork. The building is open Sunday to Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Thursday to Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., making it a perfect destination for food, shopping and relaxation.
Downtown Aquarium
Located in Downtown Houston, the Downtown Aquarium is both an impressive marine
animal exhibit and an entertainment complex. It features around 300 species of marine life and offers a variety of attractions, including a Ferris wheel, a carousel and a spectacular restaurant with exquisite dining options. While student discounts are not currently available, you can purchase all-day passes for $25.99, allowing you to explore the aquarium and enjoy its many attractions throughout the day.
Enjoying the Outdoors
Taking time to recharge and connect with our beautiful surroundings is always important. Fortunately, Houston offers numerous outdoor spaces, including parks, nature trails and markets, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature while having fun.
Hermann Park
Hermann Park, just minutes from downtown Houston, is a vibrant cultural and recreational space surrounded by the
Texas Medical Center, Rice University and the Museum District.
This incredible park offers a variety of affordable, and often free, recreational activities.
You can enjoy an impressive golf course, an outdoor theater, a jogging track, a stunning rose garden, picnic areas, a butterfly exhibit and even the zoo—all within this beautiful green space.
Buffalo Bayou
Buffalo Bayou, a 160-acre green space just west of downtown Houston, is the perfect spot to enjoy with friends, family, and even your pets.
This expansive park features a 30,000-squarefoot skate park, a natureinspired playground and picnic areas, the Waugh Bridge Bat Colony, a 2-acre dog park and plenty of hiking and biking trails.
Admission to this outdoor facility is completely free, and you can also catch numerous performances and enjoy a variety of food trucks throughout the park.
Discovery Green
Discovery Green, located in Houston’s business
district, is a colorful urban park that is free to visit and open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
This space hosts a variety of seasonal events, including workout classes like yoga and Zumba, markets and live performances.
The park also offers kayak rides, a jogging trail, two dog runs, restaurants and more, making it a dynamic destination for all to enjoy.
Houston Zoo
If you love connecting with nature and interacting with animals, the Houston Zoo is an ideal choice.
Home to over 6,000 animals, the zoo features diverse exhibits, from the African Forest with rhinos, zebras and giraffes, to the newly introduced Galapagos Islands habitat.
Located in Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo offers free admission to students from University of Houston campuses and other local universities with a student ID.
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Located in Hermann Park, the Miller Outdoor Theatre is a beloved venue that offers eight months of free programming, providing a wide array of entertainment for all Houstonians.
With seating and open spaces for up to 4,500 spectators, it hosts a diverse range of events, including jazz and classical music
performances, dance productions and classic film screenings.
Whether you are a fan of live music or theatrical performances, this outdoor theater is a fantastic place to enjoy high-quality entertainment under the stars.
Port Houston Boat Tour
If you are curious about the unique Houston Ship Channel, Port Houston
offers free, 90-minute round-trip educational cruises with prior reservations.
Departing from Sam Houston Landing on Clinton Drive, these cruises provide visitors with fascinating views of international cargo vessels and operations at the port’s Turning Basin Terminal, offering an insightful look into one of Houston’s key industrial areas.
Photo by: Oscar Herrera
Houston is considered to be one of the most diverse cities in America where not just people from different ethnicities find their way, various cultural foods make a place for themselves.
From Indian and Tex-Mex to Italian and Nigerian, you can find a variety of cuisine options. Here’s a list of some must-tries while in Houston.
Indian
With the growing Indian population in the city, it is pretty easy to find Indian tastes in not just North Indian delicacies, but from seafood dishes of Goa to even Gujarati thalis.
Kiran’s is one of the most adored restaurants by
Indian food lovers. Started by Kiran Verma, this fine dining restaurant serves the taste of typical homecooked food, giving a feeling of warmth and comfort with each bite.
The menu items are inspired by Awadhi-style cooking that serves food with a contemporary twist like papadum nachos or tandoori duck with an apricot biryani.
Another well-known restaurant, featuring vegetarian food from Rajasthan and Gujarat is Maharaja Bhog.
store in Second Ward serves a menu that seems to be endless.
Known and credited as the “inventor of the fajita,” this place is usually always busy. Customers like to order their signature Ninfaritas and the spicy skirt steak fajitas.
The restaurant serves all its food in thali style, with small portions of every dish arranged on one huge plate. You can taste every item on the menu and it’s unlimited!
Tex-Mex
Houston is known to serve some of the best Tex-Mex food in the country. It is also one of the most favored cuisines by many Houstonians.
The Original Ninfa’s On Navigation in Second Ward is a must-try. Opened in 1973, this corner
If you’re looking for some old-school setting, make sure to check out El Real Tex-Mex cafe. It has the perfect setting of a vintage Tex-Mex restaurant.
The best part about El Real is how the menu goes beyond Houston. You can find dishes like the San Antonio puffy tacos, Roosevelt Special combo from Fort Worth and Parrilla Platter
Italian food is known for its passion while also being simple. It is a much-loved cuisine even amongst Houstonians.
Located in Montrose and opened in December 2021, Amore is a highly recommended Italian restaurant.
The restaurant cooks its pizza in a wood-burning oven and the burrata with prosciutto and egg is a must-try. The place is also well-known for its menu featuring a huge section of truffle items.
Another go-to Italian stop, also located in Montrose is Paulie’s. The restaurant features unique varieties of homemade pasta dishes like the U-shaped creste di gallo and a classic hoagie.
if you want to try authentic sushi. Run by a couple, the husband is a trained sushi chef while the wife waits tables.
Apart from the tasty food, the whole experience feels warm, homey and helps you admire the place with Japanese art and wall tapestries.
Established in 1998, this restaurant is affordable, gives a comforting vibe and offers not just pasta, but also salads, soups and even sandwiches.
Japanese
Japanese food is undoubtedly a global sensation. Not only is it tasty, but it is also known for its healthy approach.
Sushi Miyagi is the perfect place
Who doesn’t like karaoke? Genji is the best stop to not just enjoy some amazing Japanese delicacies, but also flaunt your karaoke skills.
The restaurant serves ramen, sushi rolls, tekka don, teriyaki, sakes, beers and cocktails. It is open until 2 a.m. every day and private karaoke rooms can also be rented.
Mediterranean
Greece is surrounded by the four seas, and just like the country, its food also specializes in a wide range of spices like oregano, sage, thyme and basil.
Niko Niko’s is a much-loved chain and has a casual setting suiting everyone.
The restaurant has a wide variety of menu offering options for vegetarians and vegans as well.
A must-try is the traditional gyro platter or a fusion dish featuring pita quesadillas with sliced gyro meat.
Fadi’s, although not a fine dining restaurant, has still become a beloved local chain.
The Mediterranean grill offers a wide range of options from Middle Eastern specialties to even Lebanese specialties.
You can try food items like kabobs, falafel, shawarma, hummus and tabouli as well as fresh dips, salads, roasted fish vegetarian kousa and meatless wraps.
Navigating Getting Around Houston Public Transit
Photos by: Oscar Herrera
Story by: Cindy Rivas Alfaro
Navigating the public transit system can be overwhelming, but there are several resources available to make the process easier. If this is your first time hopping on a train or a bus, these tips should help you feel like a pro.
Getting a METRO fare card
As a UH student, you get
discounted METRO Fare Cards that you can acquire by heading over to the Parking and Transportation Office or signing up online at metroridestore.org.
You will need a government-issued photo ID and one of the following: your current class schedule and your tuition receipt, a letter from the college verifying you’re a
student or a completed Discount Metro Q Fare Card application signed and stamped by a school registrar.
Your new card includes access to all METRO routes including local bus, METRORail and Park & Ride services. The new discounted fee is .60 cents for all services except Park & Ride and offers free transfers for
3 hours when used in the same direction of travel.
You can reload your card at any METRO RideStores or online.
Metro Rail
The Metro Rail is one of the more popular methods of transportation on campus considering the purple line has several stops at UH including Elgin/Third Ward, TSU/ UH Athletics District and UH South/University Oaks.
The number one tip for riding the Metro Rail is to ensure you are going in the right direction! Check your map before your trip, and pay attention to the signs at the station and what direction the bus is going.
When entering downtown, some stations might only have one METRO rail bus heading in one
direction so you might have to walk a few blocks to head to your appropriate station. Your map will be your best friend in these situations.
The purple line runs every 12 minutes Monday-Friday and every 18 minutes Saturday-Sunday with the first trip starting before 5 a.m. For more in-depth information about all the stops and the green and red lines, head over to
ridemetro.org.
Bus
With over 80 local bus routes, there is a more extensive range of locations you can go to. While you can use your regular maps app on your phone to figure out your route, Transit is a great alternative. The Transit app gives you real-time updates on where your bus is on the map and lets you know how full
the bus is.
This is a game-changer as you can feel more at peace knowing where your bus is and how long it will take to get there.
Each bus has a dedicated number or “route name” that lets you know where it is heading or the community it serves. The METRO app or website can give you a more comprehensive look at all the available routes and buses.
As stated before, the public transit system can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. With enough preparation and practice, learning to ride the METRORail or the local bus system will become second nature.
The History of Houston
Story by: Melissa Unlu Graphic by: Lily Huynh
Founded on August 30, 1836, by visionary brothers J.K. and A.C. Allen, Houston has grown from a small settlement along Buffalo Bayou into a vibrant metropolis. From its strategic beginnings, the arrival of the first railroad in 1853 and its role in the cotton industry, to its growth as a haven for Civil War refugees, Houston has always been a city on the move. Whether you’ve lived here all your life or are just setting roots, understanding Houston’s rich history offers a deeper appreciation for the place we now proudly call the Bayou City.
Named after General Sam Houston, the hero of the Battle of San Jacinto and the first president of the Republic of Texas, the city’s history is deeply intertwined with the early days of Texas itself. The Allens, originally from New York, saw potential in the land near the bayou and set the foundation for what would become one of the most diverse and dynamic cities in the nation.
By 1913, Houston’s cultural attractions expanded significantly with the founding of the Grammy Award-winning Houston Symphony.
For over a century, the Symphony has played a central role in the city’s artistic community, becoming one of America’s oldest performing arts organizations. With celebrated leaders like Ernst Hoffmann (19361947), Efrem Kurtz (19481954) and Hans Graf (2001-2013), the Symphony not only attracted local audiences but also gained international acclaim. Its debut at Carnegie Hall on March 11, 1965, marked the beginning of a series of 16 performances at the worldrenowned venue.
While Houston’s symphonies, art galleries and museums contribute to its cultural richness, the city’s spirit is equally embodied in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Originating in the early 1930s as the Houston Fat Stock Show, it quickly introduced the Wild West’s charm with the addition of the rodeo events in 1938. This shift led to a surge in popularity, with thousands traveling to witness the craft of horsemanship, bull riding and roping skills. In 1974, after a fire destroyed the Sam Houston Coliseum, the legendary Astrodome, the world’s first domed
stadium, became the new home for the rodeo.
What began as a modest livestock show now attracts millions of visitors from around the globe, establishing itself as an internationally acclaimed event and a cornerstone of Houston’s civic life.
Houston’s rise as the center of space exploration began in 1961 when NASA announced the city as the location for its Manned Spacecraft Center, later renamed the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center.
This marked the beginning of Houston’s pivotal role in the space race finalized in 1969 when the word “Houston” was first spoken from the lunar surface by astronaut Neil Armstrong.
The establishment of the Texas Medical Center in 1943 also gave rise to Houston’s commitment to innovation, marking it as a leader in both space exploration and medical research.
The city’s rich history and culture have also produced an array of famous personalities who left their mark. Beyoncé Knowles, a global music icon, was born and raised in Houston. Howard Hughes, the legendary entrepreneur, aviator and filmmaker, also rose from this vibrant city.
The list continues with Barbara Jordan, an impactful lawyer, politician and civil rights leader, who was the first African American woman from the South elected to the U.S.
House of Representatives. These figures, among others, have shaped Houston’s identity as a prominent city of ambition and influence.
From its humble beginnings to its status as a global city, Houston’s story is one of resilience, diversity and a relentless pursuit of progress. Whether through the arts, space exploration, medical innovations or the rodeo, Houston continues to captivate the world with its unique blend of Southern charm and metropolitan energy. As the city looks to the future, it remains a beacon of hope and innovation, while continuously growing and evolving by honoring its rich heritage.
Embracing Social connEctionS
One of the most pivotal aspects of college life is building connections. Don’t be afraid to be social, even if it means interacting on a surface level at first!
The beauty of the college experience lies in the people you meet, whether it’s through orientation, group projects or campus events. These interactions form the foundation of a community, a network of peers who understand the highs and lows of college life.
Not everyone you meet will stay in your life, but that’s okay. As people filter in and out, you’ll find your core group, the people who make your college experience unique. Reach out to those you met during orientation or in (required) group projects—these are the connections that often evolve into lasting friendships!
this, it’s imperative not to let imposter syndrome take hold of you.
Be flexible with your studies and allow your interests to evolve! College is a time for exploration, and it’s okay if your focus shifts or changes direction entirely. This adaptability is part of the learning process.
Don’t be afraid to try new things, whether it’s a different major, a new club or a unique course. Your growth during college isn’t just academic; it’s also personal, and embracing change is key to that development!
building a routinE
Establishing a routine is essential to manage the demands of your coursework and help prevent feeling overwhelmed, especially as assignments and finals approach.
discipline not only improves your academic performance but also helps you maintain a healthy work-life balance in the future!
SyndromE
It’s easy to feel out of place or doubt your abilities, especially in a university as large as UH, and because of
Creating a study schedule or maintaining a planner in this sense can often help one keep track of dates, deadlines and exams.
By building consistency in your daily habits, you’ll find it easier to stay on top of your responsibilities. This
A simple compliment can go a long way in brightening someone’s day!
Whether it’s telling a stranger that you love their outfit, or letting a professor know you enjoyed their lecture, sharing positive thoughts fosters a more supportive and engaging environment. Compliments are a small but powerful way to build connections and contribute to the positive culture on campus! going to officE hourS and nEtworking (yES, you havE to do it too)
One of the most underutilized resources in college is office hours. Take advantage of this time to connect with your professors and ask questions about course material, career advice or even personal interests!
Building relationships with
your professors can prove to be incredibly beneficial, as they often have valuable insights and connections in your field of study.
Like this, attending office hours can often lead to opportunities like research positions, internships or strong letters of recommendation, all of which are crucial for your academic and professional future.
EngagE in clubS and activitiES
UH offers a wide variety of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests! Joining clubs, such as the Tennis, Creative Writing or LULAC Society club, is a great way to meet new people, explore your passions and even discover new ones.
Whether it’s an academic society, a cultural group or a recreational club, these activities hold the capacity to enrich your college experience and help you build a well-rounded resume.
you prefer spreading your classes throughout the day or packing them into a few hours. Both approaches here have their pros and cons.
A sparse schedule gives you time between classes to relax or study, while backto-back classes can free up larger chunks of time for other activities. Find what works best for you to maintain a balance between academic responsibilities and personal time.
Staying organizEd and informEd
Don’t ignore the emails sent by your college directors or professors to your inbox! These communications often contain valuable opportunities, such as job openings, scholarships or special events.
For instance, as an English major student, I’ve discovered my current position at the Writing Center through the very means!
Showing your Cougar pride means participating in campus events, supporting UH sports teams and engaging with the diverse student groups on campus.
This involvement helps build a strong sense of belonging and pride in your university!
Being a student at the University of Houston is what you make of it. By being social, flexible, organized and engaged, you can navigate your college years successfully and make memories that will last a lifetime!
managing your claSS SchEdulE
When planning your class schedule, consider whether
Showing your cougar pridE
Lastly, don’t be afraid of immersing yourself within the UH community.
Moving is the worst. It is also the best. It can lead to some of the best moments of your life and the most devastating pain of being away from a place you’ve grown up in.
I had never been in love with a place until I moved to Houston at the start of my freshman year in 2021.
Starting my undergraduate career, in the midst of a global pandemic, in a city I had never been in was scary.
However, in the three years I have lived in Houston, I proudly call it home.
At first, Houston was a foreign land to me. I had never gotten to explore the campus and city due to
the restrictions caused by COVID-19. Being left alone in an unknown city with no friends or family was devastating and daunting.
I cried a lot. I explored the campus and tried making new friends. Then slowly, I ventured out of campus and dealt with Houston’s infamous traffic to explore the city. It was hard but soon enough, Houston was no longer a strange city, but a place I started to explore and familiarize myself with.
I learned to love the accessibility to concerts and great restaurants for brunch and learned to hate driving on Allen Parkway or through Montrose. Partaking in the Houston Rodeo, visiting NASA and
driving through downtown Houston at night, made the city feel big enough to be human.
Every day I found something I loved in Houston and fell in love with the city more and more. It has also been great for my life professionally, the biggest reason why I decided to go to UH. I have worked as a news intern at Community Impact and Houston Public Media, two places I never would have gotten the chance to work at if I hadn’t been at UH.
However, while being in the city has been exceptional for my career, living away from my hometown has been difficult. Moving away from your family is harder than you realize. I have
missed important moments like birthdays and festivals, simply because I am at school.
The distance between my hometown, Nacogdoches and Houston is merely 154 miles, a two-and-a-half-hour drive. While the physical distance doesn’t seem drastic, the two cities are worlds apart when it comes to everything else.
At my high school in Garrison ISD, I was the only Indian kid and with that came the uncomfortable questions and bullying. If being the new kid is hard, just imagine being the new kid from the other side of the Atlantic. I had a hard time making my transition not only from British to American English but also learning how to fit in.
No matter how much I tried to fit in, I could never picture myself in the small town I had been living in. I found lifelong friends and a new appreciation for life at Garrison. But I still felt like an outsider, like a puzzle piece not belonging to
the puzzle set it has been stored with.
However, in the threeodd years I have lived in Houston, I have found a place I am proud to call home. There is more than just one Indian girl on campus and being in Houston gave me a chance to live amongst not only my own but other cultures as well.
In Houston, I no longer feel like a stranger. I have found a new home, new friends
and a new appreciation for life.
Houston is just as much of a home to me as Nacogdoches is. My family is there but my heart belongs to H-Town.
I am still finding my place in the world, discovering who I am and learning new things about myself as well as Houston. I may not know where I will be in a few years, but I do know that I will always call Houston my home.
Highlighting Houston’s Book Scene
Whether it be charming independent bookstores or diverse local authors, Houston is home to both in abundance. The city’s literary landscape is vast and has something unique to offer to all sorts of readers.
Let’s shine the spotlight on some of Houston’s lesser-known independent bookstores that may become your next favorite places to visit as well as introduce you to some local authors whose books may become your next favorite reads.
Houstonian Bookstores
Kaboom Books
Situated near Downtown Houston, Kaboom Books is a bookstore that sells, buys and trades used books. Be it new releases or outdated titles, Kaboom Books stores approximately 100,000 books from 84 different genres, including but not limited to art, history, literature, physical science and social science.
Customers appreciate this
indie bookstore because of its unique selection of books and its organization of books by subject. Additionally, this bookstore gathers love from customers for its aesthetics and visuals, with heaps of bookshelves towering over each other along with various seats and ladders sprinkled across the store.
If you prefer to read used books–the ones with cracked spines, notes along the margins and dog-eared pages, Kaboom Books may have to be on your travel list the next time you are near the area.
Story by: Mahdiya Bhiwandiwala Graphic by: Lily Huynh
The Book Readers Venue
With the belief that “when one book closes, another one opens,” The Book Readers Venue is an independent bookstore located in one of the city’s suburbs, Humble, TX.
This bookstore is majorly dedicated to romance and romantic suspense novels, primarily written by authors of color. As a matter of fact, The Book Readers Avenue is a Blackowned bookstore, owned by Sherrele Goloversic, whose aim is to increase exposure and visibility of books written by African American authors. With her own appealing bookstore, Goloversic also aims to inspire a new generation of literary talent so that there are more stories to share with the world.
You could pay this bookstore a visit on the weekends since it is closed from Monday to Thursday and immerse yourself in a whole new world of unheard stories from powerful and impactful voices.
Becker’s Books
Established in 1993, Becker’s Books is a second-hand bookstore that is family-owned and operated by two generations and counting.
This indie bookstore is home to tens of thousands of titles in approximately 70 different genres, including niche and specialized topics like regional history and literary criticism.
The bookstore is encased in a cozy red house that provides a warm and comfortable ambiance to all customers who can browse through stacks of rustic bookshelves.
If you are on the hunt for new bookstores to visit, make sure to add Becker’s Books to your itinerary for the weekend.
Houstonian Authors
Katherine Center
The New York Times bestselling author of “The Bodyguard,” Katherine Center, is actually a native of our beloved hometown, Houston. Though she went to college out of state, she returned back to Houston at the age of 22 when she won a fellowship to the University of Houston’s Creative Writing Program.
The setting of her most famous title, “The Bodyguard,” actually seeks inspiration from her family’s cattle ranch outside of Houston.
Her other well-known titles include, “Hello Stranger,” “The Rom-Commers” and “Happiness for Beginners,” which is set to be a Netflix movie soon. Readers admire Center’s books for their witty banter, lovable and quirky characters, realistic depiction of family dynamics and swoon-worthy closed-door romances.
Katharine McGee
To add to this list, we have another New York Times bestselling author of “The American Royals” series as well as “The Thousandth Floor” trilogy, Katharine McGee, who is also from Houston. McGee went to college at Princeton and completed her MBA from Stanford.
McGee’s books usually contain a multitude of characters, portraying the complex relations between humans and the way each character intertwines with one another. Readers typically enjoy McGee’s books for their unusual yet intriguing concepts and welldeveloped plots. Her books have also been nominated for many awards, making her a decorated and loved author.
Bryan Washington
Raised and brought up in Houston, Bryan Washington is known for his collection of short stories titled, “Lot,” as well as his novel titled, “Memorial.” His work has been critically acclaimed and his writing is considered to be gut-wrenchingly honest as his stories tackle issues related to identity and belonging.
Washington has been a recipient of many literature awards and in 2022, Washington made it to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. Currently, he is an assistant professor for Creative Writing at Rice University.
It is no surprise that Houston is home to vibrant and vintage bookstores and talented authors who have made a mark both nationally and internationally. Our city is being represented by authors and books that reach audiences
