Local author Kevin Ashton talks with us about his upcoming book The Story of Stories , in which he outlines the history and development of human storytelling from night fires to the contemporary digital age. Look out for the release of Ashton’s book on March 3, 2026. Visit our Bookshop or Libro sites to pre-order The Story of Stories.

Book Review by Biff Rushton

Local author Cassidie Salley talks with us about her new gothic fantasy novel, Vanish in the Ambre . We spoke with Salley previously back in April about her book After the Light Died , and are now hosting her Book Launch Party at Wildfire Park in Leander on October 24th from 5pm to 9pm! There will be trick or treating, live music, and a food truck. Come in costume to receive a free Lioness Books tote bag! AS: Tell us about your new gothic fantasy book “Vanish in the Ambre”! CS: “It’s set in modern-day Texas, in a town called Trickem (based on the real-life town of Trickham!). All sorts of witches and fantastical creatures live there, but the town’s largest population is their infestation of ghosts. Our main character, Becca Newman, is a necromancer, specializing in reviving people’s pets and familiars. She’s on the job one day reviving a familiar when she stumbles upon a secret she wasn’t supposed to find.” AS: Do you have any favorite moments from the book—or writing it—that you can share with us? CS: “At the very beginning of the book is a chapter where Becca goes to the movies and a ghost interrupts her watching. That was the first time this story really clicked for me, trying to merge the modern-day teenager just trying to hang out with a deep and dark haunting. I spent the rest of the book trying to chase that energy I found in that one chapter.” AS: What messages or sentiments do you hope readers will take away from your book? CS: “While this is a very silly and (hopefully) funny book, a lot of its deeper themes are about grief and loneliness. Losing yourself after a traumatic event, losing friends and wondering what happened, trying to find yourself but still being labeled an outsider…all of this stuff is hard, and unfortunately a lot of young people can relate to it. While Becca is certainly not perfect, she is unapologetically herself. She’s alone because of it sometimes. Then one day, people who appreciate that about her start gravitating towards her. If there’s one thing I want people to take away from this book, it’s to not be afraid to be yourself even in the midst of grief and loneliness, because the right people will find you. If there’s another thing I want them to take away, it’s to not be afraid of being vulnerable in that grief, because sometimes that’s the only way to heal.”

Talking about mental health can still feel hard. That’s because stigma, the judgment or shame people feel or face for having mental health struggles, is still very real. According to recent mental health stigma statistics from NAMI, more than half of U.S. adults with a mental illness don’t receive treatment. One reason? Fear of being judged. Books can help change that. They open doors to understanding. They help us see each other more clearly. They remind us we’re not alone. At Lioness Books , we believe in the power of stories. We support diverse voices and care deeply about community wellness. This list is for anyone ready to learn, reflect, and join the movement to break the silence around mental health, because together, we can make a difference. Why Is Mental Health Still Stigmatized? Even though we talk about mental health more today than ever before, stigma still lingers. But why? Much of the stigma stems from fear and a lack of understanding. For years, mental illness was hidden or treated as shameful. In movies and news, people with mental health issues are often depicted as violent, weak, or unstable. These portrayals still shape public perception. Cultural beliefs matter too. In some families or communities, emotional struggles are seen as personal failures or problems to “get over.” This fosters silence and shame. The truth is, mental health is just as real and important as physical health. Stigma only adds to the pain people are already carrying. That’s why breaking it matters. Examples of Mental Health Stigma Mental health stigma can show up in small, everyday moments. Sometimes, it sounds like: “Just tough it out.” “You don’t look depressed.” “People with anxiety are just overreacting.” Stigma can also arise at work, where someone may avoid helping out of fear they’ll seem unreliable. In schools, students struggling with focus or emotional issues are often labeled as lazy instead of being supported. Even within families, someone may stay quiet about how they feel because they worry they’ll be judged or not believed. This kind of silence can make people feel even more alone. 10 Must-Read Books by Local Authors That Destigmatize Mental Health Stories deepen our understanding of others’ feelings. They remind us we aren’t alone. Each book offers a distinct voice and experience, but all aim to create space for healing through honesty, empathy, and connection. Here are 10 powerful books that help break the stigma and invite us to listen, reflect, and heal. 1. "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" by Lori Gottlieb Through stories of her therapy clients and her own experience, Lori Gottlieb shows that even therapists need help sometimes. It’s an honest, often funny, and deeply human look at how people grow through pain, loss, and change. Purchase Here 2. "The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression" by Andrew Solomon Andrew Solomon blends personal experience with research and interviews to explore the many sides of depression: medical, social, and cultural. He travels across countries, meets with scientists and survivors, and reflects on his own journey with mental illness. Purchase Here 3. "It’s OK That You’re Not OK" by Megan Devine Megan Devine writes from her own loss to explain why grief isn’t something to “fix.” She speaks to those living with loss and those who want to help, without offering quick solutions or false hope. Purchase Here 4. "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk uses decades of research to explain how trauma lives in the body and mind. He shares stories from survivors and offers science-backed ways to support healing. It helps readers understand why recovery looks different for everyone, and why we must treat trauma with care. Purchase Here 5. "Reasons to Stay Alive" by Matt Haig Matt Haig shares what it felt like to live through a deep depression and anxiety, and what helped him keep going. By putting real words to an often hidden experience, this book helps reduce the shame that can surround mental illness and reminds readers that they are not the only ones feeling this way. Purchase Here 6. "An Unquiet Mind" by Kay Redfield Jamison As a clinical psychologist living with bipolar disorder, Kay Redfield Jamison writes with rare insight. Her memoir explores the highs and lows of the illness, as well as the challenges of treating others while struggling herself. Purchase Here 7. "I’m Telling the Truth, but I’m Lying" by Bassey Ikpi Bassey Ikpi shares intimate essays about life with bipolar II and anxiety, moving between her Nigerian roots and American experience. By naming what’s often left unspoken, especially in communities of color, this book disrupts silence and isolation around mental health. Purchase Here 8. "Burnout" by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski Emily and Amelia Nagoski explain why so many women feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck, and what can be done about it. They break down the stress cycle and offer practical ways to move through it. Purchase Here 9. "Heavy" by Kiese Laymon Kiese Laymon reflects on growing up Black in the South, navigating trauma, weight, shame, and silence. This memoir opens up space for complex conversations around race, masculinity, and mental health, especially in places where those stories are often left out. Purchase Here 10. "Unmasking Autism" by Devon Price Devon Price explores how many autistic people hide their true selves to adapt to a world that misunderstands them. Drawing on personal experience and research, the book shows what unmasking truly means. Purchase Here How Books Help Reduce Mental Health Stigma Books can be lifelines. They reveal that mental health struggles are far more common than we think, and that healing is possible. When authors share their stories, they create space for others to feel seen and understood. Reading about someone else’s journey can help us better understand our own or support someone we love. Books also help challenge myths by showing the full, human experience behind the label. Whether it’s a memoir, a novel, or a guide, a good book can be the starting point of a deeper conversation and a powerful step toward empathy and change. Find Your Voice in Someone Else’s Story Stigma fades when we choose to listen, learn, and speak up. These books are invitations to see mental health through a more human lens. Whether you’re looking for hope, understanding, or a place to begin, there’s something in these pages for you. At Lioness Books, we believe stories can build stronger, more caring communities. That’s why we uplift diverse voices and make space for conversations that matter. You can support this mission and your own journey by picking up one of these titles today. Browse and shop our full collection at Lioness Books. Frequently Asked Questions About Mental Health What Does Mental Health Stigma Mean? Mental health stigma is the negative belief or judgment people have about mental illness. It shows up when someone is labeled as “weak,” “crazy,” or “broken” for struggling with their mental health. Stigma can lead to silence, shame, and discrimination. It also prevents people from asking for help or discussing what they’re going through. How Can We Help Break the Stigma Around Mental Health? We can help break the stigma by changing how we talk, think, and act around mental health. Here are a few ways to start: Talk openly about mental health. Listen without judgment. Learn from people with lived experience.. Challenge stereotypes and correct false ideas when you hear them. Support access to care by advocating for better mental health resources. Treat mental health like physical health. Even small actions can make a big difference.  Which Books Are Good for Understanding Mental Health? Books that share personal stories or offer clear insight into mental health challenges are helpful. Some good options include " Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" by Lori Gottlieb, " The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, and " Heavy" by Kiese Laymon. These titles offer different points of view and help readers better understand what it’s like to live with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health conditions. Why Is There Still So Much Stigma Around Mental Illness? Mental illness has often been misunderstood and misrepresented in the media, schools, and even families. Many people still believe it’s a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of. Some cultures also avoid talking about emotional struggles altogether. All of this creates fear, silence, and misinformation, which is why education and honest conversations are so important.

Local author Janice Airhart talks with us about her two memoirs, Mother of My Invention: A Motherless Daughter Memoir and (newly-released) Subject to Change: Teaching and Learning from Teen Moms . Airhart also shares her favorite moments from her writing process and a message she hopes readers take away from her work. Check out her website here .

National Read a Book Day is a time to pause and reconnect with the joy of reading. It reminds us that books aren't just stories; they're tools for learning, understanding others, and seeing the world in new ways. The purpose of this day is to encourage people of all ages to pick up a book and make reading a part of their lives. Reading helps us grow, whether we do it to relax, learn something new, or escape into a different world. That's why this day matters. To celebrate, all you need to do is find a book that interests you, set aside some time, and start reading. In this blog, we'll help you choose one that's truly worth buying. Choosing the Right Book: 5-Finger Rule Explained. Choosing the right book can make reading more enjoyable. The five-finger rule is a straightforward way to check if a book fits your reading level. Here's how it works: Pick a book and start reading. Each time you find a word you don't understand or can't read, hold up one finger. 0–1 fingers: The book may be too easy. 2–3 fingers: This book is just right. 4–5 fingers: The book might be too hard for now. This rule helps you find books that challenge you without causing frustration. It's a good way to ensure the books you choose are not only interesting but also worth buying and finishing. Choosing the Right Book: 5-Finger Rule Explained What is the #1 Most Read Book of All Time? The most read book of all time is The Bible. It's estimated to have sold over 5 billion copies worldwide. It has been translated into more than 3,500 languages, making it the most translated and widely distributed book in history. The Bible has two main parts: the Old Testament, which includes religious Jewish writings, and the New Testament, which tells the story of Jesus and the early Christian church. People read it for many reasons, including faith, study, moral guidance, and understanding its influence on culture and history. Beyond religion, the Bible has shaped art, laws, language, and literature. Because of its lasting impact and global reach, it remains the most read and recognized book of all time. 15 Incredible and Worth Buying Books for National Read A Book Day 1. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett Twin girls grow up in a small Black town in the South but take very different paths as adults; one lives as a Black woman, the other passes as white. The story follows their families over generations, exploring identity, race, and the cost of hiding who you are. Buy Here 2. The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros Esperanza Cordero shares short stories about growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Chicago. Through her eyes, readers see the struggles and hopes of a young girl finding her place in the world. Esperanza's story helps us understand what it means to dream of more while holding on to where you come from. Buy Here 3. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi The novel follows two half-sisters from Ghana. One is forced into slavery and sent to America, while the other remains in Africa. Each chapter continues with the next generation, showing the impact of history on both families. Homegoing encourages readers to think about the roots of today's struggles and how stories can bring them to light. Buy Here 4. Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner Michelle Zauner writes about losing her mother and holding onto her Korean identity through food and memory. It's a personal story about grief, love, and learning how to move forward without letting go of the past. This memoir is honest and direct and shows how stories can offer healing. Buy Here 5. There There by Tommy Orange Multiple Native American characters prepare for a powwow in Oakland, each carrying their own struggles, hopes, and history. Their stories come together to show the modern Native experience in an urban setting. This novel provides a platform for those voices and helps readers see a part of American life that is rarely told in such a powerful way. Buy Here 6. Educated by Tara Westover Reading this book highlights how education can change a life. Tara Westover grew up in rural Idaho in a strict, isolated home with no formal schooling. She started going to school for the first time when she was seventeen years old and ended up getting a PhD from Cambridge University. Her journey shows the power of learning and the struggle to break away from the past. Buy Here 7. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah Trevor Noah shares stories from his childhood in South Africa during apartheid. Born to a Black mother and a white father, his existence was literally a crime at the time. The book balances humor and pain while exploring race, identity, and resilience. Buy Here 8. Know My Name by Chanel Miller Chanel Miller, once known only as "Emily Doe," tells her story as the survivor of the case of the sexual assault at Stanford. In this story, she takes back who she is and shares the emotional, legal, and personal journey that followed. This book is a strong example of how writing can speak truth, offer strength, and inspire change. Buy Here 9. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern A magical circus appears without warning, filled with wonders that only open at night. Behind it is a quiet contest between two young magicians, bound by a challenge they didn't choose. As the story unfolds, magic, love, and fate are woven together. Buy Here 10. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig Nora Seed discovers herself in a library between life and death. Each book depicts a different version of her life based on the decisions she may have taken. As she analyzes these lives, she begins to understand what really matters. This novel helps readers reflect on regrets, second chances, and the value of being present in the life you have. Buy Here 11. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus Elizabeth Zott was a brilliant chemist in the 1960s, but the world saw her only as a woman who didn't belong in science. After losing her lab job, she became the unlikely host of a cooking show, where she taught more than recipes. Through quiet resistance and sharp insight, she challenged norms and inspired change. Buy Here 12. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia In 1950s Mexico, Noemí Taboada is sent out of the way home to check on her cousin, only to uncover dark family secrets buried beneath the surface. Gothic horror blends with themes of control, power, and race, set against an eerie backdrop that feels both historical and timeless. Buy Here 13. Beloved by Toni Morrison The story takes place after the Civil War and is about Sethe, a woman who was once enslaved and is haunted by her past and a spirit connected to a terrible choice she made. The story changes between the past and the present, showing the mental scars that slavery left behind. Buy Here 14. The Color Purple by Alice Walker Told through letters, the life of Celie unfolds as she finds her voice in a world shaped by abuse, silence, and later, love and freedom. Through her words, readers witness the strength of women supporting each other against all odds. Buy Here 15. Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler In a future where society has collapsed, fifteen-year-old Lauren Olamina creates a new belief system based on change and growth. Her journey through danger and uncertainty builds a vision for a better world, grounded in survival and hope. Buy Here Conclusion: How to Start a Reading Habit National Read a Book Day is a chance to slow down and reconnect with the value of reading. Books help us learn, reflect, and see the world through different eyes. Taking time for a good story, whether for 10 minutes or an hour, can make a lasting difference. Starting a reading habit doesn't have to be difficult. Try setting aside a few minutes each day or choosing one evening a week to read without distractions. Use a journal or reading app to track what you've read and what you want to read next. Check out our full collection of books worth buying to get started today.

Sometimes, one idea is enough to change everything. A few pages from the right book can show you a better way to deal with stress, help you break a bad habit, or give you the push you need to start something new. That's why self-help books have become such a valuable resource for individuals seeking to grow and improve. And clearly, more people are turning to them. The self-improvement industry is expected to reach $54 billion by 2025, with books remaining one of its most trusted and accessible tools for change. If you're curious about the impact of life-changing books, the list below is a great place to start. These 10 self-help books have helped millions of readers, and one of them is what you need right now. Practicing What You Read From Recommended Self-Help Books Reading self-help books can feel motivating in the moment, but real growth happens when you apply what you read. It's not about getting through as many books as possible. It's about taking the time to try the ideas out in real life. Behavioral science backs this up. Studies show that people experience more personal growth when they combine reading with action, such as keeping a journal, setting goals, or tracking daily habits, compared to reading alone. In fact, research into neuroplasticity shows that our brains can physically change when we're exposed to new ways of thinking, especially when we practice those ideas consistently. For example, a personal development book might suggest starting the day with intention. It sounds simple, but when you make it a daily habit, your brain begins to expect it. Over time, your thinking changes, and so does your behaviour. Understanding Why The Best Self-Help Books Are Overrated Not everyone is convinced that self-help books work, and that's fair. What resonates with one reader may seem obvious or unhelpful to another. That's because many self-help books repeat the same ideas: build habits, think positively, set goals. But repetition isn't a flaw; it's part of the design. Repetition helps form new habits, especially when you're trying to change long-standing behaviours. The goal is to help you actually do it. Even when looking at the most important self-help books of all time , results vary. A global study found that while millions read some titles, their impact often depends on how readers engage with the material. Reading passively won't lead to much. But when people reflect, take notes, or apply the tools, they're more likely to see results. 10 Must-Read Self-Help Books Could Actually Change Your Life There's no one-size-fits-all approach to personal growth, but these books offer clear ideas you can try in everyday life. Whether you want to build better habits, rethink how you handle stress, or boost your confidence, these titles have helped millions achieve the same. Here are some of the best and recommended self-help books: 1. Atomic Habits by James Clear James Clear demonstrates how to implement small changes in your daily routine that yield long-term results. He explains the habit loop, which consists of cue, craving, response, reward, and provides clear strategies, such as habit stacking and environment design. You will learn how to stop doing bad things by replacing them with better ones that align with your goals. 2. Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty Jay Shetty draws on his time living as a monk to teach mental clarity, gratitude, and purpose. He breaks down practical tools, such as breathwork, journaling, and intention setting, to help you manage stress and build focus. The book offers a step-by-step approach to shifting from distraction to direction. 3. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero Jen Sincero helps readers recognize self-doubt and stop letting fear hold them back. She combines personal stories with practical advice on money, relationships, and mindset to encourage readers to take action. You'll find exercises and affirmations designed to help you trust yourself and go after what you want. 4. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson The book argues that life's struggles are necessary and demonstrates how choosing what to care about provides freedom. Mark Manson challenges the notion that happiness stems from consistently staying positive. Through stories and examples, he teaches how to accept failure, set boundaries, and live by your values. 5. The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg Charles Duhigg explains how habits shape our personal lives, careers, and communities. Using case studies from companies and real people, he shows how to change behaviour by identifying the cue-routine-reward cycle. The book provides practical techniques for replacing unhealthy habits with healthier ones that foster long-term success. 6. Grit by Angela Duckworth Angela Duckworth examines why talent alone doesn't guarantee success. She uses research and real-life examples to demonstrate that perseverance, which she refers to as grit, is the key to achieving long-term goals. The book outlines how to build grit through passion, practice, and purpose, even when progress feels slow. 7. Offline Humans by Natalie Alzate Natalie Alzate explores the impact of screen time on mental health and social connection. She offers a guide for stepping away from endless scrolling and rebuilding real-world habits that bring joy and clarity. Through personal stories and practical tips, she helps readers reconnect with themselves and the people around them. 8. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown Brené Brown invites readers to let go of who they think they should be and embrace who they are. She shares ten guideposts for living with courage, compassion, and connection, built on years of research in vulnerability and shame. The book encourages readers to live fully, even when life feels uncertain or messy. 9. The Mindful Way Workbook The workbook provides an eight-week plan to reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional stress through mindfulness. It includes guided exercises, meditations, and reflection tools designed to help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings. By following these steps, readers can develop daily habits that support mental clarity and calm. 10. Designing Your Life  by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans Bill Burnett and Dave Evans use design thinking principles to help readers build a life that feels meaningful and aligned with their values. They walk you through exercises to explore different career paths, test new ideas, and move forward with confidence. The book is practical, hands-on, and ideal for individuals who are stuck or unsure about what to do next. Most Frequent Questions When Reading Self-Help Books The best self-help books can spark curiosity and sometimes doubt, because they often make big promises with simple solutions. Some readers wonder how a single book can change deeply rooted habits or fix years of stress, anxiety, or self-doubt. Others worry that these books oversimplify complex problems or repeat the same ideas without considering individual circumstances. Still, many people find real value in them, especially when they read with an open mind and take action on the parts that resonate with them. Here are answers to the most common questions readers ask: 1. Do self-help books work? They can, but not independently. Self-help books work best when you treat them as a starting point, not a solution. They offer guidance, ideas, and strategies, but the impact depends on how willing you are to reflect, take action, and stay consistent. 2. Can books change your mindset? They can. Reading new ideas helps your brain form new patterns through a process called neuroplasticity. Many self-help books are designed to challenge unhelpful thinking and introduce better ways to respond to everyday challenges. 3. What are good self-help books? The best self-help books cater to your specific needs at the moment. Some focus on habits and behavior, such as Atomic Habits and The Power of Habit, while others, like The Mindful Way Workbook or The Gifts of Imperfection, explore mindset and emotional well-being. The best book is the one that helps you take the next step in your own growth. 4. When did self-help books become popular? Self-help books gained popularity in the early 20th century as more people sought practical advice on personal growth and success. Their popularity grew rapidly alongside changes in psychology, education, and publishing, and they remain widely read today. Are Self-Help Books Right For You? If you're looking to grow, reflect, or make a change, big or small, then self-help books can be right for you. They won't solve everything overnight, but they can offer clarity when you feel stuck, tools when you feel lost, and a starting point when you're ready for more. The most important thing is choosing a book that speaks to your current needs. Whether you're building new habits, shifting your mindset, or learning to manage your time and energy, the right book can help you take that first step. You don't need to read them all. One is enough to move you forward. You can find all 10 featured titles and more at Lioness Books .

At Lioness Books, we believe that books are not merely a matter of ink and paper, but are armories brimming with the untamed ordinance of freedom, ideas, transformation, progress and inspiration; arsenals forged to fight the soul-silencing tyranny of ignorance and suppression. Under current political conditions, the United States has seen an alarming escalation in the scope and scale of book censorship, with our great state of Texas leading the charge in aggressive restriction of accessing books which explore race, gender, sexuality, and social justice. In 2025, the banning of books has re-emerged not as a fringe idea or lesson in history, but as a strategy within a broader effort to control cultural narratives and shift our truths. Disguised as protection, this current call for censorship threatens the very essence of what a bookstore believes in and represents… a free exchange of ideas. We, as Texans, are standing at an epochal crossroads, facing a challenge that is not simply a battleground for intellectual freedom, but a fatal threat to democracy herself. Here at Lioness Books, we are resolute in our dedication to this struggle, and we are committed to fight without compromise nor capitulation. Texas, more than any other state, leads the country in formal book challenges and bans. According to data from PEN America, a nonprofit organization that tracks censorship in literature, Texas school districts have led the nation in book bans for the past five years. These bans often target works of LGBTQ authors, books by and about people of color, and works that confront America’s historical injustices. The political justification tends to hinge on vague or loaded terms such as obscenity, indoctrination, or inappropriate content, without recognizing the literary or didactic value of the works in question.  What we are witnessing in Texas is not just a reaction to individual titles, but the deliberate use of censorship as a political weapon to reshape public education and discourse. State legislators have passed and proposed laws that limit how teachers can discuss race and gender in classrooms, and library materials are now under scrutiny from elected boards, whose knowledge of literature and learning is more often than not, slim to none. These developments are not isolated. They are part of a coordinated national trend that has pushed Texas out front as the ideological epicenter and political testing-ground for this refurnished brand of censorship. These bans do more than remove books; they erase the experiences of marginalized communities, signaling to students - especially those from underrepresented groups - that their stories don’t matter. We believe our youth deserve better. They deserve literature that reflects the full spectrum of human experience, and to deny access to those diverse perspectives is to rob them of a chance to develop critical thinking, empathy, insight, and a nuanced understanding of the world. The pages of history are stained with the consequences of book bans, a tactic employed by those who seek to suffocate the human spirit’s capacity for thought and soulful transformation. In Nazi Germany, the beginning flames of fascism were fed with kindling constructed of novels, poems, political papers, and science texts deemed un-German, degenerate , or contrary to the country’s nationalist ideology. Their 1933 book burnings were not vandalism but a calculated effort to erase ideas that threatened fascist control, setting the stage for the cultural and moral devastation that was soon to come. In the Jim Crow South, from Reconstruction through the Civil Rights era, books that affirmed the dignity of Black Americans or exposed the horrors of racism - like Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God - were systematically excluded from public access to preserve the narrative of racial inferiority. The McCarthy era in 1950s America also echoed this fear of ideas, as the government’s frantic, anti-communist crusade led to the blacklisting of authors, librarians, and teachers. Works such as Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience and John Steinbeck’s The Grapes Of Wrath were pulled from library shelves beneath the accusation of promoting leftist ideals, and for daring to question the status quo. History offers countless parallels: the 16th century burning of Mayan codices, and the erasing of indigenous knowledge by the Spanish, or the Chinese Communist Party’s destruction of counterrevolutionary texts during the Cultural Revolution. Each instance reveals censorship as the weapon of choice for those who fear the power of knowledge and the capacity of the right words to awaken consciences, stir emotions, and ignite movements of change. These lessons from the past compel us to resist the book bans of today, recognizing them as assaults on the very essence of intellectual and moral freedom. Texas - where freedom and independence have long been considered God-given birthrights - we must resist being the next to fall into the goose-step march of oppression, censorship, and control. Our children deserve better. Our teachers deserve better. Our future deserves better, and our democracy - messy, plural, and defiant - demands better. For Lioness Books, our resistance to this suppression is not just a matter of principle. It is a recognition of literature’s role in the eternal struggle for justice and truth. We call home a state where the political climate has become increasingly hostile towards dissent, and where public education is being transformed into a war of ideological conformity. As a bookstore, we are under no illusion that our shelves alone can halt these efforts. But we believe in the power that books possess in uniting and sustaining resistance and delivering hope. By preserving access to stories, we preserve the heartful soul of culture; we preserve truth. When we defend the right to read; we affirm liberty and the right to question, dream, and dissent. This has nothing to do with nostalgia. This is survival. Lioness Books will continue to stock what is banned, what is hidden, what is suppressed, and we will celebrate what is silenced. We will carry the voices forward proudly and full-throated. Because history shows us, when you ban a book, you don’t erase its truth… you ignite its power.

Lioness Books is highlighting the freedom to read and the dangers of censorship this August with Banned Books Month. Anne Russey, co-founder of the Texas Freedom to Read Project, talks with us about advocating against book bans and censorship, and the biggest roadblocks they face in the process. Russey also shares the inspiration for their nonprofit organization as well as their mission and values. We are running a social campaign all month long—DM us a photo of you with your favorite banned book to be featured on our socials (@lionessbookstx)! Check out our curated booklists featuring a variety of banned books on our Bookshop and Libro sites too.