Description
Book SynopsisSociologist Stephen Klineberg presents “a trailblazing study” (Kirkus Reviews) that shows how the city of Houston has emerged as a microcosm for America’s future—based on a meticulously researched, thirty-eight-year study of its changing economic, demographic, and cultural landscapes.Houston, Texas, long thought of as a traditionally blue-collar black/white Southern city, has transformed into one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse metro areas in the nation, surpassing even New York by some measures.
With a diversifying economy and large numbers of both highly skilled technical jobs in engineering and medicine and low-skilled minimum-wage jobs in construction, restaurant work, and personal services, Houston has become a magnet for the new divergent streams of immigration that are transforming America in the 21st century. And thanks to an annual systematic survey conducted over the past thirty-eight years, the ongoing chang
Trade Review“Essential . . . A long overdue urban biography . . . Engaging and accessible.” —
The Houston Chronicle"A trailblazing study . . . Klineberg supports his case with a wealth of survey research, interviews with experts, and user-friendly graphs, all of which make this book invaluable for anyone seeking a deep understanding of an underappreciated city. A unique blend of analysis and research that is likely to become a classic work of scholarship on Houston."
—Kirkus (starred review)“A fascinating portrait of Houston . . . A must-read, highly recommended sociological perspective of America’s future.”
—Library Journal (starred review)"A detailed, accessible portrait of the changing face of Houston."
—New Yorker“[A] layered, nuanced history of this ever-evolving city.”
—Texas Observer"Klineberg’s meticulous research makes a strong case that Houston, with its growing inequalities, demographic shift to a nonwhite majority, and rising social and environmental consciousness, is at the forefront of America’s future. This eye-opening and accessible study deserves a wide readership."
—Publishers Weekly"An excellent new book on Houston . . . Particularly well-timed to our current moment . . . What Klineberg does beautifully in this book is to show that the challenges that Houston is grappling with today will be the challenges that the rest of us will be facing tomorrow."
—Inside Higher Ed“It’s a relief to read a book where Houston isn’t just the backdrop—it’s the story. . . . Critical reading for anyone interested in the Bayou City.”
—Texas Monthly
