Epoch Booklist: Recommended Reading for June 12–18

This week, we feature an examination of revolutions, especially how the American Revolution fundamentally differed from others, and a noteworthy collection of articles about “Texas Tea,” the oil that changed the state.

Nonfiction

‘Rage and the Republic: The Unfinished Story of the American Revolution’

By Jonathan Turley

In this “unfinished story of the American Revolution,” law professor and commentator Turley contrasts the mob rule and irrationality that marked so many past revolutions with the cooler heads that established the American republic. He then takes a look at today’s turmoil and the dangers confronting our republic, especially from AI and political radicals who would destroy our natural rights. An excellent take on the state of our Constitution, liberties, and those seeking to abolish both.

Simon & Schuster, 2026, 448 pages

Biography

‘Butch Cassidy: True Story of an American Outlaw’

By Charles Leerhsen

Born poor in Utah to a Mormon family, Robert Leroy Parker had apparently had enough of the poor life, as well as the demands of an honest living. He decided to change everything about himself, even changing his name to Butch Cassidy. As one of America’s most famous outlaws, his disdain for poverty yet appreciation for honesty made him a somewhat lovable robber. Leerhsen’s riveting biography gives a clear view of what made Cassidy tick and what led to his demise in Bolivia.

Simon & Schuster, 2020, 320 pages

History

‘Black Gold in Texas: Oil and Gas History in the Southwestern Historical Quarterly’

Edited by Richard B. McCaslin

Oil is known as “Texas Tea” because of its link to Texas. This creates interest among Texas historians about Texas Oil and Gas history. This book collects 17 articles originally published in Southwestern Historical Quarterly between 1941 and 2010. It reveals as much about academic attitudes towards oil and gas as about Texas oil and gas. Well-researched and well-written, it gives an excellent introduction to Texas’s oil and gas industry while suggesting further reading for those who want more.

Texas State Historical Association, 2025, 320 pages

Fiction

‘Miss Sally’s Son’

By Thomas Curry

Jack Benton is an international lawyer in Berlin. When he gets a phone call telling him his mother, age 51, died suddenly and unexpectedly, he returns home to settle her affairs. He discovers his mother was well-off, the café she owned was profitable, and that she was beloved in his hometown for her charity. He also learns the identity of his father, gone before he was born. In the process, he learns life is measured by those you help, not by your income or job title.

Ignatius Press, 2026, 321 pages

Classics

‘The Young Lions’

By Irwin Shaw

Published just three years after World War II, this novel offers an unusual slant by featuring a Nazi, Christian Diestl, whose decent impulses are eaten away by the war. The other protagonists are American soldiers Noel Ackerman, who proves himself brave in battle, and Michael Whitacre, a cynical Broadway stage manager. In Diestl, Shaw explores the corrosive nature of evil while creating realistic combat scenes and the touching camaraderie of Ackerman and Whitacre. A good story by a fine writer.

University of Chicago Press, 2000, 696 pages

For Kids

‘The Tale of Mrs. Tittlemouse’

By Beatrix Potter

Mrs. Tittlemouse keeps her tiny home neat and orderly, but woodland visitors keep tracking in mud, leaves, and mischief. Beatrix Potter’s 1910 classic is full of cozy detail, gentle, relatable humor and beloved illustrations, making young readers smile as the patient little mouse tries to restore peace and perfect tidiness to her adorable abode.

Frederick Warne Publishers, 2002, 64 pages 

What arts and culture topics would you like us to cover? Please email ideas or feedback to [email protected]