Gulf Coast Reads: Home

About the Selection

The Gulf Coast Reads Committee is delighted to announce that the 2025 Gulf Coast Reads selection is The Faculty Lounge by acclaimed Houston author Jennifer Mathieu! 

This smart and heartfelt novel follows a cast of teachers as they navigate the tangled web of education, community, and personal transformation. With warmth, wit, and an insider’s eye, The Faculty Lounge offers an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of the adults behind the lesson plans.

Jennifer Mathieu, a longtime educator and bestselling author of Moxie and Bad Girls Never Say Die, brings her signature empathy and insight to this ensemble story of connection, courage, and the quiet revolutions that happen in everyday spaces. And did we mention Mathieu lives right here in Houston?

The Faculty Lounge was chosen by popular vote after the Gulf Coast Reads Committee had narrowed the search down to three finalists. The other two finalists were Shoot the Moon by Isa Arsén and Lawrence Wright's Mr. Texas.

About the Author

Jennifer Mathieu is the critically acclaimed author of seven novels for young adults including Moxie, which is now a major motion picture directed by Amy Poehler (Netflix). Her books have been translated into over twenty languages. A former journalist, Mathieu is a graduate of Northwestern and has been a teacher for nearly twenty years. She lives with her family in Houston.

Author Event

Just like every October, this year’s Gulf Coast Reads will feature book discussions and special events, including a can’t-miss author appearance by Jennifer Mathieu on Monday, October 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the West University Community Center right next door to the West University Branch Library. The event will be free, and you can register here.