The story highlights the special bond between Marisol and her grandfather as they cultivate a garden together, planting various seeds for vegetables and flowers that hold personal significance. Marisol's act of planting sunflower seeds in her community symbolizes spreading joy and connection. Through changing weather, the garden flourishes, culminating in a vibrant display that brightens the surroundings. This heartwarming tale encourages young readers to think about sharing happiness and nurturing relationships, complemented by charming illustrations.
Gwendolyn Zepeda Books
Gwendolyn Zepeda is an award-winning author and poet celebrated for her distinctive voice and knack for capturing the essence of the human experience. Her works, often infused with wit and sincerity, delve into themes of family, identity, and perseverance. Zepeda employs vibrant language and engaging storytelling to craft narratives that resonate with readers of all ages. Her ability to tap into the intricacies of everyday life and transform them into stories that are both poignant and uplifting marks her as a remarkable figure in contemporary literature.






Lone Star Legend
- 350 pages
- 13 hours of reading
An aspiring journalist, currently relegated to a gossip blog, uncovers a story that redefines the concept of legendary. This captivating narrative explores themes of ambition and the pursuit of meaningful journalism, penned by award-winning author Gwendolyn Zepeda. With a focus on the protagonist's journey, the book promises to deliver a blend of humor and insight into the world of media and storytelling.
To the Last Man I Slept with and All the Jerks Just Like Him
- 184 pages
- 7 hours of reading
With a blend of dark humor and poignant reflections, Gwendolyn Zepeda's debut collection offers a unique exploration of identity and culture. Spanning personal essays, parodies, and inventive fiction, it delves into her experiences as a half-white child of hippies in a Mexican barrio. Themes of family, love, economic struggles, and self-discovery are woven throughout, as Zepeda's bold voice critiques societal stereotypes while navigating her own complexities. The narrative captures the vibrancy and challenges of youth and early adulthood in a compelling way.
Houston Noir
- 256 pages
- 9 hours of reading
The fourth-largest city in the US is long overdue to enter the Noir Series arena, and does so blazingly.
Readers of HONEY GIRL and THE BOOKISH LIFE OF NINA HILL will fall in love with this smart, vivacious, and laugh-out-loud novel about a superstitious young woman who is looking for love in all the wrong places.
Better with You Here
- 352 pages
- 13 hours of reading
Friendship plays a crucial role in the healing process, as the narrative explores the dynamics and support systems among a group of friends. Through shared experiences, laughter, and challenges, they navigate personal struggles and emotional growth. The story emphasizes the transformative power of companionship and the importance of leaning on one another during tough times, showcasing how connections can lead to recovery and resilience.
"In her second poetry collection, monsters -real and imagined- chase Houston Poet Laureate Gwendolyn Zepeda through late nights when she can't sleep. Ghosts routinely visit in the early morning hours, but in spite of her fears, she hopes to have escaped the devils that followed her."--
Falling in Love with Fellow Prisoners
- 75 pages
- 3 hours of reading
A debut collection by the first Poet Laureate of Houston capturing the aching loneliness and vulnerability of contemporary urban life