Stories from Texas: Some of Them Are True

by WF Strong, Wyman Meinzer (Photographer)

You might call W.F. Strong a student of all things Texas. In 2010, he began sharing his 'Stories From Texas' vignettes on public radio stations, most recently on the Texas Standard news show's 30 stations. For this book celebrating his home state, Strong has collected 75 of his broadcasts. You'll hear his inimitably Texan voice in your mind's ear as he weaves stories on subjects ranging from how to ''talk Texan'' to Texas bards and troubadours; from tall Texas tales to Lone Star icons like Charles Goodnight, Tom Landry and Blue Bell ice cream; from legends and unsung heroes of the past to some heartfelt memories of his own. Strong agrees with John Steinbeck that ''Texas is a state of mind . . . a mystique closely approximating a religion,'' and every one of his stories embraces the Texas state of mind.

Genres: History

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 11, 2018

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Midwesterner who married into a Texas family, I knew some of the stories and myths about the Lone Star State, but this book brought them to life for me. It made me want to visit the remote corners of Texas and experience the unique personalities that flourish there. The author’s personal reflections about his home and his family made me feel like a true Texan.

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this from one of my kids for Christmas and was really excited to read it. As a fourth generation Texan I know a lot of good Texas stories and hoped for some new stories about my home state. Happily, there were a quite a few stories in the book that I had never heard or read. One story in particular was great because I never knew where the "I'm mad too, Eddie" phrase came from. I remember the bumper stickers and t-shirts from when I was young, but didn't care enough then to learn it's origin. Now I know! One thing I didn't like about this book is that the author added some stories of his own life at the end; vignettes about his own family that in my opinion didn't belong in the book. They were cute stories, but seemed out of place to me. Overall a very quick read with some good ol' Texas fun.

[WF Strong · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the author perhaps it is unusual for me to comment on my own book, but I can provide some useful insight concerning the two forms of the book. I like the Kindle edition a little better because I chose color photographs for the book believing that they would be published in color, but the paperback and hardback versions printed the photos in black and white, which mostly failed to provide the vibrant colors that make the photographs extraordinary. The Kindle version, with the back-lighting, showcases the photographs as they ought to be displayed. Other than that, the two versions of the book are identical, except for price of course.

[Morris Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. Being a Texan made the book much more interesting. Really enjoyed it.

Really enjoyed the book. Being a Texan helped. and made the book much more interesting. Really enjoyed it, and recommend it to others.

[janice hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good old Texas stories. Loved every page! The Texas pronunciations and meanings were hysterical (but true). All the other true stories of people and events were interesting and informative. Loved the nostalgic stories he put in about his own life and family growing up in Texas. Would truly be excited for him to write another book. I would be first in line.

[Tyler Varisco · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book cascades from informative, to hilariously comedic, to deeply moving and personal. Although I don’t recall ever really noticing the radio program, Strong’s stories are expertly told and will resonate with Texans and “Texpatriots” alike.

[Monica Emerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belly laughing funny!!

[Laurie Moreland]

Stories from Texas was my nightstand read for a couple of weeks. This collection of anecdotes speaks to my adopted Texas heritage -- I have been here for 25 years and feel like this has become my home in every way. These stories are funny, poignant, informative, and they speak to the pride for which those who live here are famous. If you're from Texas, you'll understand. If you're not from here, well, give 'er a go and see.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun book full of short stories/vignettes based on a series done for NPR. And I am glad they are published in this small book. Easy to read, one story at a time. “I remember that” or “Yep, that’s how it is,” is totally real and understandable. If you are a true Texan this book brings it all home. I’m now fixin to’ read another book. I might outta go to library!

[CURTIS NUGENT · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Being a Texpatriate I enjoyed reading about our culture and why we are the way we are. The section on our language and pronunciation was hilarious (and very, very true!). Well, I'm fixing to put on my cowboy hat and Tony Lamas, grab a Shiner Bock and sit on the front porch and reminisce about coming of age in Texas. Y'all take car!

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the short, informative view of lots of things Texas including meanings of some words such as”maverick”. Also fun to review the list of Texas books recommended by the author showing me ideas for “what to read next”. A neat compilation for anyone even if you have never been there.

[Terry McIntire · Rating 4 out of 5]

All good stories that you might need to be from Texas to enjoy and a few excellent stories all would enjoy. Whether you like all the Texas lingo, legends, jokes, history, etc. Be sure to read the last few about the author and his family.

[Marti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great if you are from Texas or visiting Texas. I think this would be better if I listened to the Audible version. I laughed out loud several times and since I am recovering from surgery was afraid I would bust a stitch!

[Robin Black · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot about Texas history

[Jess · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fluffy but enjoyable.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to it during a road trip through the great state and enjoyed WF Strong’s booming and soothing radio voice. If you have any roots in Texas, these short stories will speak volumes to you.