Blog Archives
The Governor’s Trophy
The Governor’s Trophy by Terry L. Broxson is a historical novel set in 1956 Texas, centered on a college debate tournament that becomes far bigger than a contest for a trophy. The story follows Barbara Jordan and Otis King of Texas Southern University, the first Black debate team invited to compete against white Texas colleges, and Maridell Fisher and Wretha Whittle of Hardin-Simmons University, two talented white debaters who find themselves standing at the edge of history. What begins as a competition over arguments, evidence, and speaker points turns into a sharp look at segregation, courage, fairness, and the people who either resist change or help make room for it.
I appreciated how Broxson uses debate as more than a setting. It becomes the engine of the story. Every conversation feels like a test of values, not just skill. The students are bright, funny, ambitious, and sometimes unsure of themselves in ways that make them feel human rather than symbolic. Barbara Jordan stands out, of course, with her confidence and force of mind, but the novel does not flatten the others around her. Maridell and Wretha are given space to learn, question, and act with integrity. It would have been easy for the book to turn them into simple observers of history, but instead, they become participants in it.
Broxson’s choices are direct, especially in the scenes involving Governor Allan Shivers and the political forces trying to control the outcome. The villains can feel painted in heavy strokes, but the approach fits the moral clarity of the story. This is not a quiet novel about subtle prejudice. It’s about systems that were built to exclude, and about young people walking into those systems with preparation, poise, and nerve. The historical details, from debate rules to campus life to road trips and cafeteria meals, give the book a grounded texture. I found those smaller moments especially effective because they let the larger themes breathe. A conversation over food can carry as much weight as a confrontation in a boardroom.
The Governor’s Trophy will appeal most to readers who enjoy civil rights stories, courtroom or debate-style drama, and novels that imagine the emotional truth behind real historical possibilities. I would recommend it to readers who like history told through character, especially those interested in education, public speaking, Texas history, or the early shaping of leaders like Barbara Jordan. It’s thoughtful, accessible, and sincere, with a clear belief that words matter, but only when people are brave enough to stand behind them.
Pages: 156 | ASIN: B0H4DZVJ44
No One Was in Physical Danger
12 New Christmas Stories is a heartwarming and nostalgic collection of short stories, each offering a different perspective on the holiday season. What was the collaboration process like with all the different authors, how did you choose what stories to include?
Smooth as cream, mostly. Any rough patches were of my own rasping. You see, my collaborators are all more civilized than I. The fact that our interactions were conducted exclusively via the ether, no one was ever in physical danger. C’mon, we’re geezers. People our age don’t come to blows, we just sigh expressively—even when one is barely housebroken. And I’m not talking about the Big Dawg, either. Sorry, an inside joke.
I’m not sure how my book-mates chose their stories, but when Terry Broxson asked me to contribute, I knew he wanted me to include Jesus and Donkey. When he asked for two more stories, I decided on Million Dollar Christmas, and Jo-Jo’s Turkey. All three stories are built around young boys experiencing the Christmas Spirit in an adult way. Read together, it’s a boyish Christmas trilogy.
What were some goals you set for yourself with this anthology?
A Pulitzer, a phone call from Stephen Spielberg, and a nice letter from my 7th grade English teacher, Miss Eliza McCarthy. Sadly, Miss McCarthy has passed. But that doesn’t take you off the hook, Spielberg!
Are you working on any other collections for different holidays?
I haven’t broached the idea to my book-mates yet, but I’ve always felt Saint Swithin’s Day has gotten short shrift. Failing that, opening day of the Major League Baseball season offers lots of possibilities. No, I ain’t kidding. I’m thinking nine original stories—one per inning. While the game seesaws in the background, each inning, we feature a story about something happening in the stands, or the dugout, or the broadcast booth, or the concession stands, or the Men’s room, for that matter. Just one caveat: I won’t take part unless the setting is Fenway Park. And that’s final.
Christmas is a time for family and traditions—the foods we eat, the songs we sing, and the stories we share.
Within the covers of this book reside real and fictional families, both familiar and unfamiliar. What they all have in common is the Christmas Spirit—in spades. These are the kind of people you’d gleefully invite to share your dining room table on the most celebrated day of the Christian calendar.
We, the authors of these stories, know the world spins faster and faster every day, and the holidays can be particularly hectic. That’s why we chose these lovely stories that can be read in ten minutes or less. Hey, even a teenager can be coaxed from his or her phone for ten inspiring minutes, right?
12 New Christmas Stories
12 New Christmas Stories is a heartwarming and nostalgic collection of short stories, each offering a different perspective on the holiday season. Ranging from touching tales of family traditions to humorous fictional adventures, it’s a book that seeks to capture the essence of Christmas. Each author presents their own style, making it a delightful read for those who enjoy variety. You’ll find yourself drifting from the high deserts of New Mexico to cozy family living rooms, all while reflecting on the themes of love, kindness, and the magic of the season.
What I loved most was how relatable many of these stories were. Diane Kenel-Truelove’s “The Magic of Santa’s Christmas Box” really pulled at my heartstrings. She took me back to my own childhood, reminding me of those magical moments when Christmas seemed larger than life and was filled with mystery and wonder. The story about receiving a box of books from Santa transported me back to the days when even the smallest gestures during the holidays felt magical. The emotions it stirred were incredibly powerful. There’s something so simple and beautiful about remembering how special Christmas felt as a child.
Terry Broxson’s “The Christmas Tree,” stands out for its blend of whimsical fantasy and heartwarming tradition. The story is narrated through a conversation between the protagonist and his talking cat, Holly, who recounts a fascinating tale about the origin of their Christmas tree tradition in the Arapaho tribe. Broxson weaves humor into the narrative, especially in the playful dynamic between the cat and its owner, but the story also carries deeper themes of peace, unity, and the blending of cultures. The historical backdrop of Kit Carson and Native American customs, combined with the quirky cat’s storytelling, gives this Christmas tale a unique charm that feels both magical and thoughtful.
On the other hand, Lee Allen Hill’s “Jesús and Donkey” was lighthearted and fun but also had a deeper emotional core. This story about a boy in New Mexico trying to buy a turkey for his Christmas dinner was charming and felt like a love letter to simpler times. Hill’s writing paints vivid scenes and made me feel like I was alongside Jesús and his quirky dog, Donkey. The playful humor between the characters and the unexpected turn with the mountain lion added a nice twist. It reminded me of those feel-good holiday movies that leave you smiling at the end.
Jay Squires’ essay “Bring Back the Carolers” hit me right in the nostalgia. The way he reminisces about the simple joy of carolers and homemade hot cocoa made me yearn for a time when the holidays felt more communal. His writing was almost poetic, bringing the past alive with such vivid detail. His words felt like a gentle nudge toward rekindling old-fashioned holiday spirit.
Pages: 95 | ASIN : B0DBVCLX3S
Someone Who Gives Lovingly and Freely
Santa Claus: The Beginning is the enchanting story of a young man tasked with assuming the role of Santa Claus and the adventures and friendships that follow as he realizes his destiny. What inspired you to write this reimagining of the age-old tale of Santa Claus?
The inspiration came from a dream I had. A voice said, “Terry, write a new version of A Christmas Carol, but make the main character the man who would become Santa Claus.”
I then thought about what kind of man would become Santa and what kind of boy grows up to be that man.
And more importantly, how and who convinces the man to become Santa.
What was your favorite scene in this story and why?
My favorite scene in this story is Santa and his Chief Elf, Pinnacle, discussing Pixies and pixie dust used in some spaghetti. I thought it was a fun way to show the loyalty of the two characters and some of their personalities.
What, if any, types of challenges did you face as you created this new version of a beloved classic?
The key challenge was to ensure that my new additions to the traditional story of Santa would fit and make sense. I wanted the reader to think to themselves, “I understand how these events add some fun information and more dimension to Santa.”
Giving a definition of the name of Santa Claus was important. Someone who gives lovingly and freely.
I also hoped to introduce some new characters to the story who would embody the traits of Santa.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be out?
That is a good question. I’ll have to get back to you on that.
Author Links: GoodReads
Follow John as he encounters magical elves and meets Jessica, the manager of Santa’s castle at the North Pole. Experience the excitement of Santa’s first global trip on Christmas Eve, 1840, as the story reaches its heartwarming conclusion.
This enchanting tale unveils the origins of a talented toy maker, his special abilities, the loyal reindeer by his side, and the devoted friendships that shape his destiny. Suitable for all ages, this classic story is a delightful adventure filled with magic, imagination, and the spirit of Christmas.
Santa Claus: The Beginning
Set in 1820’s Boston, Terry Broxson’s Santa Claus – The Beginning revolves around the industrious Rudolph Stern, the owner of the acclaimed Rudolph Stern Toys. Stern’s business flourishes year after year, attributed not just to his good business sense but also his unmatched craft of toy-making. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Stern is approached by a youth selling two distinctly unique toys made by orphans Benjamin Timmons and John Nicholas. Recognizing the inherent talent behind these creations, Stern not only acquires the toys but also decides to meet, and subsequently adopt, the two young boys. Bringing them under his wing, he mentors them into becoming Master Craftsmen. Stern’s untimely demise in 1835 leaves the duo with the challenge and honor of upholding his esteemed legacy.
Broxson masterfully weaves fiction with the beloved legend of Santa Claus, offering readers an imaginative origin story. The depth and relatability of the characters pull readers into their world, making them feel they are part of the characters’ journey. Touching moments and magical twists add layers to the narrative.
The narrative excels not just in its storytelling but in the vivid imagery it conjures. Broxson’s depiction of the North Pole is so immersive that one can almost taste the hot cocoa, hear the elves’ hard at work, and witness the camaraderie between the reindeer. The subplot of John’s romance with Jessica, the castle manager, adds another layer to this multifaceted tale.
Without confining it to any specific age bracket, Santa Claus – The Beginning is a delightful read for all ages. Its enchanting narrative, complemented by rich descriptions, makes it an ideal tale to revisit every Christmas season. It is sure to become a cherished tradition, best enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa and the warmth of family. For anyone with a penchant for Christmas tales that resonate, Broxson’s tale is an absolute must-read. Highly recommended for readers young and old alike.
Pages: 84: ASIN : B0CGC5HWR3
