Tom Dodge Talks About Texas: Radio Vignettes and Other Observations 1989-1999

Tom Dodge Talks About Texas: Radio Vignettes and Other Observations 1989-1999 I picked up this book in my periodondist's office and started reading it. All of a sudden I realized he was talking about Cleburne, Texas, where I grew up. I then looked at the title more closely, and realized that this was written by Tommy Dodge. I graduated from High School with him in 1957. The pictures on the front of the book are from the court house square in Cleburne. I quickly went to the book store and ordered the book, and have picked it up several times and read the different recollections. Some I have read several times. What delightful memories as I recall those days...I could feel myself getting up early and riding my bike...I could visualize the school rooms back then...and the hangouts....and as he mentioned my classmates and the Sante Fe Railroad where my daddy also worked. I visited with him then at our 50th class reunion, at which he talked. It is wonderful to read something to help rekindle all these memories.

Tom Dodge is a very talented writer with a wonderful memory about his youth. In Tom Dodge Talks About Texas, he talks about the small Texas town of Pampa, along with many other small towns. This is where my husband and I grew up during the 1950's. In fact, my husband, Gary Griffin, is mentioned in Tom's book! He is one of the basketball "Titians" that Tom mentions. He describes the Pampa Coney Island to a "T". I cannot believe how Tom's recall of names and places is so perfect. It brought back so many good memories about that part of Texas.

My mother gave this book to me for Christmas. She taught with Mr. Dodge several years ago and is a fan of his NPR pieces. I didn't start it right away and wish that I had. It is a light read - short bits so you can pick it up and put it down. Unfortunately, I don't want to put it down. It is thoroughly delightful! I'm familiar with the places and Texas authors he mentions in the book so it is great fun. I'm going to buy several for my other family members and friends who are also Texas born - and for a few of those friends that aren't.