Gulf Coast Reads 2025 Kicks Off (and Here's Everything You Need to Know)

Gulf Coast Reads 2025: The Faculty Lounge

If you’ve ever wondered what teachers really talk about when the classroom door closes, or wished you could pull up a chair in the teachers’ lounge, Jennifer Mathieu’s The Faculty Lounge is your backstage pass. It’s sharp, funny, tender, and, honestly, one of those books that makes you want to corner your friends and say, “Have you read this yet? We need to talk.”

That’s exactly why we’re so excited that The Faculty Lounge is this year’s Gulf Coast Reads selection. It’s the book everyone across nine counties will be picking up this October, and you’re invited to join the conversation.

Meet the Author

Jennifer Mathieu is no stranger to writing stories that get people talking. A Houston-based teacher herself, she’s the author of several acclaimed novels for young adults, including Moxie (yes, the one that inspired the Netflix movie), Devoted, and The Truth About Alice. Her books are celebrated for their empathy, honesty, and pitch-perfect voice—qualities that shine in her first novel for adults.

With The Faculty Lounge, critics and readers alike have praised Mathieu’s ability to balance humor and heart while pulling back the curtain on the daily joys and frustrations of teaching. The result is a story that feels both timely and timeless—whether you’ve stood at the front of a classroom or not.

Join the Conversation

Of course, Gulf Coast Reads is more than just a book—it’s a celebration. Harris County Public Library has a full lineup of events to help you dive deeper into The Faculty Lounge and connect with fellow readers. Highlights include:

A live author event with Jennifer Mathieu, your chance to hear directly from the writer herself, ask questions, and maybe even get that copy signed, as well as book discussions and special programs inspired by the book at libraries across Southeast Texas.

Explore All Gulf Coast Reads Events

An Evening with Jennifer Mathieu

Monday, October 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m. @ West University Community Center: Register Now for this FREE event.

Ready to Read?

Grab a copy of The Faculty Lounge, mark your calendar for October, and get ready to laugh, nod, and maybe even tear up a little as we share this story together. Gulf Coast Reads is about more than reading a book—it’s about building community, one conversation at a time. And if you want to dive even deeper into Jennifer Mathieu’s world, here’s a complete list of her books to explore [Click or tap on a cover for more information]