The Thorny Rose of Texas: An Intimate Portrait of Governor Ann Richards

by Mike Shropshire, Frank Schaeffer

A look at the governor of Texas presents the life of a woman born to an impoverished farm community, a fierce intercollegiate debater, and an advocate for the rights of abused women

Genres: Politics, Biography, Womens, Nonfiction, Biography Memoir

271 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1994

Reviews

[Lynn G. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is not a very definitive biography of Ann Richards, governor of Texas. It could be called "Ann Richards Lite", staying away from critical analysis of Gov. Richards's experiences, motivations, and drives to choose the paths that led, ultimately, to her election in 1990. This read more like campaign material, even when describing issues and problems in her personal and political lives.

While key aspects of Gov. Richards's political philosophy were well documented and described, such as her feminist beliefs, inclusiveness of all in the political process, anti-racist views, renunciation of the legendary Texas 'good ol' boy' network, etc., the book glossed over or treated with kid gloves the less complimentary components of Gov. Richards's life, including her alcoholism and associated behaviors.

I had expected a more thorough examination of Ann Richards life but was disappointed. Disclaimer: I voted for Ann Richards twice and would have done so again if she had run for statewide office.

[Pat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Her autobiography was much better.
Lots of repetition from autobiography to biography.
She was quite a woman.

[Tambra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a Republican , she is democrat but I just love this lady. She is so interesting and the things she did for Texas while in office. I read this in one day. Great story.

[Toesnorth's mom]

good