As the pages of history turn, we find ourselves reflecting on a remarkable milestone—the 30th Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, the largest book festival in the United States, held on April 26-27, 2025. Set against the stunning backdrop of the University of Southern California campus, this annual celebration of literature brought together thousands of book lovers, authors, and industry professionals for a weekend brimming with literary magic.
Attracting around 150,000 attendees from Southern California and beyond, the festival was a testament to the enduring appeal of literature and the community it fosters. Each event, each conversation, and each shared moment contributed to a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrated the diverse voices and stories that shape our world.
This year, Citi of Books was thrilled to be part of this vibrant gathering, where the love for literature was palpable in the air. Whether you were a lifelong bibliophile or a curious newcomer exploring the world of books, the festival provided a unique opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and share our passion for the written word.
As we look back on this unforgettable weekend, we invite you to join us in reliving the highlights of Citi of Books’ gallery during the 30th Los Angeles Times Festival of Books—a true celebration of the literary arts! A book included in the gallery was “Cuentos Tejanos: Intriguing and Historical Tales of the Wild Horse Desert “ by Dr. Manuel C. Flores Jr..
The author, Dr. Manuel C. Flores Jr., a celebrated Tejano journalist and Professor Emeritus at Texas A&M University–Kingsville, has spent over 25 years in education and decades in media. Starting at 14 at his grandfather’s newspaper, he later worked for major Texas outlets and became an award-winning bilingual sports broadcaster, honored by the Texas Legislature in 2023.
In academia, Flores has authored several books, published over 150 articles, and held leadership roles, including Chair of TAMUK’s Art, Communications, and Theatre Department. He holds degrees in journalism, political science, and education, including a doctorate in educational leadership and communications.
Flores is also a prominent Tejano historian, dedicated to preserving Hispanic heritage. A founder of the Tejano Civil Rights Museum, he has served on multiple civic boards and draws from deep family roots in South Texas. Through journalism, teaching, and research, he continues to share and celebrate Tejano stories.
“Cuentos Tejanos: Intriguing and Historical Tales of the Wild Horse Desert” is a vibrant collection of historical and folkloric tales set in South Texas’s Wild Horse Desert. Blending researched history with oral tradition, Dr. Manuel C. Flores recounts stories of conquistadors, pioneers, and local legends. Some tales are sourced from academic records, others from corridos and family lore, capturing both fact and myth to reflect Tejano life and heritage.
The book’s 38 “episodes,” inspired by the format of Mexican novellas, can be read individually yet connect as a flowing narrative. This structure gives the book a lively, page-turning rhythm. Readers meet brave Tejano families and unsung heroes whose stories offer a rich, often overlooked view of Texas history.
At its core, Cuentos Tejanos is about preserving culture. Flores write with warmth and accuracy, blending research with the storytelling feel of campfire tales. The Wild Horse Desert comes alive through his words, showcasing how Tejanos, Natives, and immigrants shaped Texas’s identity and spirit.
Ultimately, “Cuentos Tejanos: Intriguing and Historical Tales of the Wild Horse Desert” by Dr. Manuel C. Flores Jr. aims to deepen readers’ understanding of South Texas history and heritage, enriching their appreciation of the Wild Horse Desert region and the enduring legacy of its people. The book invites a broad audience – from history buffs to casual readers – to experience the rich tapestry of Tejano culture, and to recognize the value of preserving these fascinating tales for future generations.
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