When was the last time you read a good book? Now, when was the last time you read a locally written book? Whatever your answer, it’s been too long. Amid the chaos and uncertainty of the world’s current situation, we can still seek comfort and joy in literature–and safely engage in the Dallas arts scene while doing so.
It’s not hard to find treasures written by local authors, you just have to know where to look. We consulted Will Evans, bibliophile and founder of the publisher and bookstore Deep Vellum, for some recommendations. Here’s what he had to say. And, of course, these are all available as e-books, or for purchase online. You can browse the virtual shelves of indie shops like Deep Vellum and Interabang for more. Here’s Will:
With the news that Amazon is de-prioritizing book sales on its site, it’s a reminder of the work your local independent bookstores do for our literary community. Please order any book you’ve ever wanted, and all of the books included herein, from your favorite local indie bookstores: Deep Vellum Books, Half Price Books, Interabang Books, and The Wild Detectives. We’re here for you, #LiteraryDallas.
Ain’t Nobody Nobody
Heather Harper Ellett (Polis Books, September 2019)
Above Us the Milky Way: An Illuminated Alphabet
Fowzia Karimi (Deep Vellum, April 2020)
Tigers, Not Daughters
Samantha Mabry (Algonquin Young Readers, March 2020)
Pippa Park Raises Her Game
Erin Yun (Fabled Films Press, March 2020)
The Big Finish
Brooke Fossey (Berkley, April 2020)
“A funny, heartfelt romp that’s all about a loving friendship across generations between two contrasting characters, it’s the debut novel from one of our area’s leading literary citizens!”