California, LA — Dr. Manuel C. Flores, an esteemed academic, author, and storyteller, brings the rich cultural history of South Texas to life in his compelling book, Cuentos Tejanos: Tales of Life in the Wild Horse Desert. This vibrant collection of stories dives into the heart of the Wild Horse Desert—a region steeped in history, myth, and mystery—offering readers a unique window into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of the Tejanos who shaped its legacy.
In the Cuentos Tejanos, Dr. Flores blends fact and fiction to craft stories that are both historically informative and emotionally captivating. The book offers a collection of short stories, or "cuentos," that delve into the lives of Tejanos—Mexican Texans—who lived in this rugged frontier.
For those unfamiliar, the Wild Horse Desert refers to a semi-arid region in South Texas and northeastern Mexico. Known for its untamed beauty, this area is rich in folklore, history, and cultural significance. The desert's name itself evokes images of roaming mustangs, resilient communities, and a spirit of independence that defines the region's inhabitants.
In coordination with Bookwrights House, which will participate in this event, London Book Fair 2025, March 11 to 13, 2025 at Olympia London, and share Dr. Manuel C. Flores book’s Cuentos Tejanos: Tales of Life in the Wild Horse Desert.
“Cuentos Tejanos" is a recounting of stories, legends, and people who helped forge the personality and character of the State of Texas, in particular in the Wild Horse Desert region South of the Nueces River and north of the Rio Grande.”
— Dr. Manuel C. Flores.
Dr. Manuel C. Flores Jr., Professor Emeritus of journalism and communications at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, boasts a distinguished career spanning more than 25 years in higher education and decades of journalistic practice. Beginning his journalism career at age 14 at his grandfather's newspaper, the Jim Hogg County Enterprise in Hebbronville, Texas, he ascended to work with major publications like the Irving Daily News and Corpus Christi Caller-Times, where he covered prominent events such as NFL playoffs and MLB championships. An award-winning bilingual sports broadcaster, he was honored by the Texas legislature in 2023 for his contributions to Spanish-English sports radio. In addition to his journalism accomplishments, Dr. Flores is a prolific academic, having authored three books, contributed chapters to other scholarly works, and published over 150 academic articles. He also held leadership roles in civic organizations, including the Corpus Christi ISD board and the Mexican American School Board Association of Texas, championing initiatives such as incorporating mariachi music into school curricula.
Beyond his journalism and academic work, Dr. Flores served as the chair of the Art, Communications, and Theatre Department at Texas A&M-Kingsville and was an active member of the Faculty Senate. His educational credentials include bachelor's and master's degrees in journalism, political science, and education from Texas A&I and a doctorate in educational leadership and communications from Texas A&M-Kingsville and Corpus Christi. A Tejano historian and advocate for civil rights, he played an instrumental role in founding the Tejano Civil Rights Museum in Corpus Christi. Additionally, he served 12 years in the Texas Army National Guard, retiring as a captain and Public Information Officer for the 49th Armored Division. Married to Adriana Garza Flores, the director of marketing at Texas A&M-Kingsville, he is a proud father of four and grandfather of ten, residing in Kingsville, Texas.
Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, a lover of regional folklore, or simply curious about the rich tapestry of South Texas culture, "Cuentos Tejanos" is a must-read. Dr. Flores' writing is engaging, evocative, and deeply rooted in his love for the Wild Horse Desert and its people.
Grab a copy of Cuentos Tejanos: Tales of Life in the Wild Horse Desert in bookstores and other online outlets like Amazon and more bookstores.
Written by Dr. Manuel C. Flores
Paperback |
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