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The holiday season is here, and for many, finding the perfect gift means visiting a bookstore or searching online for the ideal present. Texas booksellers have shared their top recommendations for this holiday season.

One of the featured books is “Chasing the Panther: Adventures and Misadventures of a Cinematic Life,” a memoir from a Hollywood trailblazer. This real-life coming-of-age story follows the journey of a tomboy who rose to become a powerful Hollywood executive. Author Carolyn Pfeiffer discussed her autobiography on Texas Standard back in March.

For those looking for insights on motivating young people, a new book titled “10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People” by UT Austin psychology professor David Yeager offers valuable tips. This research-based book provides strategies for effectively reaching younger generations.

“The House on Mango Street,” a classic story about a young Mexican-American girl in Chicago by Sandra Cisneros, is being republished in a collection of esteemed classics. Cisneros, one of North America’s most influential writers, shared more about her book in an interview with Texas Standard in February.

In honor of the late Nanci Griffith, a tribute book titled “Love at the Five and Dime” has been released. This book celebrates Griffith’s legacy as a Seguin-born singer-songwriter and explores her impact on musicians worldwide. Author Brian T. Atkinson discussed Griffith’s influence on the music industry during an interview with Texas Standard in October.

Author Alejandro Puyana’s debut novel “Freedom is a Feast” takes readers on a journey through the trials and triumphs of a Venezuelan family, spanning decades from the bustling barrios of Caracas to the lush jungles along the coast. Puyana, a Venezuela native now living in Austin and a graduate of UT’s Michener Center for Writers, shared insights about his book on Texas Standard in September.

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