Join PBS Books and the Library of Congress as we explore Western literature and Wyoming lore and its influence on writers across America. From the rugged landscapes that inspired Ernest Hemingway as he finished Death in the Afternoon, to the birth of the Western genre in Owen Wister’s The Virginian, Wyoming has shaped the imagination of generations— Including Annie Proulx who drew on her years of ranching here to craft unforgettable works like Close Range and Brokeback Mountain.
Hear from celebrated contemporary voices who call Wyoming home and whose stories echo the state’s vast landscapes and cowboy heritage—Craig Johnson, author of the beloved Longmire series, and C.J. Box, creator of game warden Joe Pickett. Wyoming is also home to children’s authors who preserve local history, such as Casey Rislov—whose A Home for Steamboat was named a 2025 National Book Pick—and poets like Matt Daly, who finds inspiration in small towns and family roots.
The only route through Wyoming is the scenic route. Along the way, discover independent bookstores and the treasures of the American Heritage Center, home to the renowned Toppan Rare Books Library. From Yellowstone National Park to working dude ranches, Wyoming’s literary landscape is as expansive and unforgettable as its horizon.
About American Stories: A Reading Road Trip
Pack your curiosity —PBS Books is hitting the road! In partnership with the Library of Congress Centers for the Book, American Stories: A Reading Road Trip shines a spotlight on individual U.S. states and select territories to uncover their one-of-a-kind literary treasures.
From iconic authors and unforgettable books to hidden-gem bookstores, amazing libraries, and the real-life locations that inspired great works, this cross-country adventure celebrates the stories that have shaped our shared identity. Along the way, we’ll meet bestselling authors, passionate booksellers, and local storytellers —plus share highlights from local programs and events hosted by each state’s Center for the Book —revealing how their corner of America has left its mark on the nation’s imagination. Aligned with America’s 250th birthday, each episode invites viewers to explore the heart, history, and creative spirit of the United States —all through the lens of books and storytelling.
New episodes will stream on select Wednesdays at 8pm EST as PBS Books Facebook Live event, and on the PBS Books YouTube channel, pbsbooks.org, and the PBS app.
About the Library of Congress
The Library of Congress is the world’s largest library, offering access to the creative record of the United States –and extensive materials from around the world –both on-site and online. It is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Explore collections, reference services and other programs and plan a visit at loc.gov; access the official site for U.S. federal legislative information at congress.gov; and register creative works of authorship at copyright.gov.
About PBS Books
PBS Books is a multi-platform initiative celebrating the love of reading. PBS Books is dedicated to connecting books with audiences by engaging them in unique experiences to spark their curiosity and encourage a life-long love of reading and learning. Through social and digital engagement and live coverage of important literary events across the country, PBS Books celebrates books and writers and works to foster a passion for reading among public media viewers and listeners.Visit pbsbooks.org, subscribe to the PBS Books YouTube channel, and follow PBS Books on social media to learn more.
