TAYSHAS takes its name from the Caddo Indian word meaning “friends or allies.” Written as texas, texios, tejas, teyas or tayshas, the word was applied to the Caddos by the Spanish in eastern Texas, who regarded them as friends and allies against the Apaches.

The goal of the TAYSHAS reading list is to motivate young adults to become lifelong readers and to participate in the community of readers in Texas. Students in grades 9 – 12 are encouraged to read books for pleasure from the list which includes fiction and nonfiction titles.

• 2023 TAYSHAS Annotate Reading List

• Visit the Texas Library Association website to view past TAYSHAS as well as lists for the 2x2, Lariat, Texas Bluebonnet Award, Lone Star Award, and more.  

• Learn how books are selected for the TAYSHAS Reading List.

• Want to read the eBook? Check out the TAYSHAS on our Sora app!