Texas Author LaToya Watkins Explores West Texas in Highly Anticipated Book Holler, Child
LaToya Watkins, a talented Texas author, is set to captivate readers once again with her highly anticipated book, Holler, Child. Following the success of her acclaimed novel, Perish, Watkins delves into the heart of West Texas through a collection of 11 short stories that intricately weave together intimate and emotional portraits. In a recent interview with the Texas Standard, Watkins shared her inspiration behind the book and her deep connection to the setting.
The Mother, the opening story of Holler, Child, holds a special place in Watkins’ heart as it was one of her first major publications. Inspired by a list of cults in Texas, she became fascinated with the motivations of cult leaders and the characters they attract. The story evolved into a captivating exploration of the human psyche, grounded in extensive research and a deeply developed character named Hawk.
Some of the stories in Holler, Child are brand new, while others have been brewing in Watkins’ mind for quite some time. As a lover of short story writing, Watkins found solace in the form, creating a box filled with index cards featuring various characters she encountered or imagined. When the right situation arose, she would pluck a character from the box and explore their story within the context of West Texas.
Growing up, Watkins had family living in West Texas, which left a lasting impression on her. She vividly recalls the distinctive cultural practices and quirks of the region, which she artistically incorporates into her stories. From dust storms to tornado preparations, she highlights the uniqueness of West Texas and how it shaped her love for writing about the area.
As an African American woman, Watkins also reflects on the experiences of Black West Texans and their distinctiveness compared to other parts of Texas. She believes that natural segregation played a role in shaping West Texas, as emancipation occurred before the region was settled. Many Black individuals migrated to West Texas to escape racial tensions found in other areas of the state. This desire for safety is a significant difference that Watkins has observed.
Over time, Watkins’ feelings about West Texas have evolved. As a young girl, she found it fun, but during her teenage years, she considered it backward and slow. However, with age and the loss of loved ones, there is now a nostalgic longing for West Texas. She finds solace in driving through the area, connecting with her memories and the places that are no longer there. Watkins has grown to consider West Texas home in a way she didn’t before, cherishing the deep emotional connection she has to the region.
With Holler, Child, LaToya Watkins continues to showcase her mastery of storytelling and her ability to evoke profound emotions through her writing. Through the backdrop of West Texas, she paints a vivid and nuanced picture of the human experience, leaving readers eagerly awaiting each turn of the page.
