Years ago, we moved to a large Midwestern city, and I went job-hunting to fund the necessities and my husband's grad school expenses.  My brief resume earned me the chance to interview with the owner of an established business firm.  He took one look and told me kindly that the interview wouldn't be necessary--I appeared to be too young.  Customers expected the main office to exude tradition and credibility, an image this applicant didn't fit.  At least I remembered my manners and rose and said something about appreciating his time, etc.  My accent must have registered, because from halfway down the hall came, "Wait, don't go--you're from Texas!"   Long story short: this gentleman had  been stationed in Texas during World War II.  He said that the kindness of Texans helped him through an otherwise miserable experience, and he pronounced Texans to be "the best people in the world".  He also gave my resume another look.  I was hired, bills were paid, and the job proved to be a great fit on both sides.

That's one of my favorite perks about being a Texan--praise by association.  This year's Round Rock Reads! selection--Texas in Her Own Words--helps to explain why we Texans generally have stories such as this one to share.  Tweed Scott's compilation of anecdotes and musings from all sorts of Texans appeals to both natives and those wishing to figure out what that mystique (Tweed calls it the "T chromosome") is all about.  And the author undoubtedly has tales of his own to tell, some of them having to do with the eye-opening experience of creating and publishing a book. 

You'll have an opportunity to talk to Tweed Scott on Thursday, April 24, at the La Frontera Barnes & Noble, 2701 Parker Road.  This final program of 2008 Round Rock Reads! is one we've been especially looking forward to--a chance to take library programming "on the road" and enjoy Barnes & Noble's hospitality while interacting with a real, live author.  Bring your questions, stories, and curiosity on Thursday evening at 7:00 PM.  See you there!