The Laura Bush Book Club kicks off its eighth year with featured guest historical fiction writer Allison Pataki tomorrow, May 14, in a sold-out event at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas.
Celebrating “powerful, enlightening storytelling that endures,” The Laura Bush Book Club is part of the Engage at the Bush Center series presented by NexPoint, which brings newsmakers, thought leaders, and popular figures to the Bush Center.
Pataki is a multiple New York Times bestselling author of 11 books, including The Traitor’s Wife, based on the wife of Benedict Arnold, and The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post, based on the cereal heiress.
Her latest novel It Girl, published in March 2026, is based on America’s first “It Girl,” Gibson Girl muse and actress Evelyn Nesbit, who in 1906 became entangled with a murder of passion that the press dubbed “the trial of the century.” Translated into more than 24 languages, Pataki’s writing brings overlooked women and milestone moments in history vividly to life.
Pataki will share insights into her creative process, the power of historical fiction to shine the light on truth, and the stories behind the stories that continue to impact our understanding of the past – and ourselves. In light of America’s 250th birthday, Pataki’s work reminds us of individuals, ideals, and complexities that have shaped our national journey – and the lasting importance of storytelling in molding our collective memory.
The sold-out event will also feature the unveiling of Laura Bush’s 2026 Summer Reading List for Kids.
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