Explore fiction, poetry, nonfiction and children’s books from the St. Mary’s University family.
by Nathaniel Miller
Relax this fall with one of the several new books written by students, alumni and faculty of the St. Mary’s University community.
From thought-provoking fiction and poetry to insightful nonfiction and fun children’s books, these works reflect creativity and compassion.
Whether you’re looking to dive into stories rooted in South Texas, explore space through military theory or revisit childhood adventures in Spanish, there’s a Rattler-penned book for every reader.
Fiction
By Rafael C. Castillo, Ph.D., (B.A. ’75)
Tiltwood Press, 2025
In an anthology of 13 stories, Castillo writes of ordinary people living in the often-neglected and overlooked barrios of America.
By Alex Z. Salinas (B.A. ’11, M.A. ’19)
Flowersong Press, 2025
Having already released four books of poetry and a short-story collection, alumnus Salinas thrills readers with his tragicomic debut novel about a poet-turned-murderer (or is he?).
Nonfiction
By D. Esperanza and Gerardo Iván Morales (B.A. ’23)
Atria/Primero Sueno Press, 2025
Morales, a St. Mary’s alumnus and graduate student, cowrote this book with Esperanza, who shares his firsthand account of immigration policies during President Donald Trump’s first administration.
By Randall K. Nichols, Ph.D., Maj. Joseph Puntoriero (M.A. ’20), and others
Independently published, 2025
Using his knowledge of military theory, Puntoriero contributes a chapter to this book by Nichols about the possible future of military operations in space.
Poetry
By Cloud Delfina Cardona (B.A. ’16)
Hub City Press, 2025
Rooted firmly in South Texas, Cardona’s debut book of poetry explores 90s nostalgia, growing up and looking for belonging.
Children’s Books
Written and illustrated by Bridgette Ralph
Translated by Meghann Peace, Ph.D., Mariana Mata (B.A. ’24) and Jennifer Saucedo
Treaty Oaks Publishers, 2025
Associate Professor Peace, alongside alumna Mata and St. Mary’s student Saucedo, completed a Spanish translation of the children’s book The Pirates are Coming by Bridgette Ralph.
By James Rainwater (J.D. ’01)
Pepin Manor Press, 2025
This children’s book by Rainwater follows the self-assured Mr. Klutz, who may not be great at much (despite his insistence), but is good at finding adventure.
