Reeder Archuleta’s book The El Paso Red Flame Gas Station and Other Stories is a small book of 122 pages and is one of the most readable books I’ve encountered in a while. Archuleta transports readers ever so fleetingly in this small book into the coming of age character, Josh.

Each little story in this well-written and engaging book reveals ever so slightly the life of Josh in a small West Texas town not far from El Paso. From Josh being taken away from his father as a young boy, to being abandoned by his mother just what seems mere months later – Josh lives his life the best way he can given his circumstances.

Archuleta blends the story well with other characters in Josh’s life that you get a good succinct background on each one without much verboseness. Especially on Roble, the girl that fell in love with Josh.

You can clearly tell Archuleta grew up in West Texas from the short, vivid descriptions of the often-harsh landscape that many of us currently call home. The above selection from the book is a perfect example of how I can tell winter is near.

If you love short stories, especially ones based in Texas that can quickly transport you from your world – then Archuleta’s book should be on your reading list.