Book Review - Shrimping West Texas: The Rise and Fall of the Permian Sea Shrimp Company by Bart Reid

Shrimping West Texas: The Rise and Fall of the Permian Sea Shrimp Company by Bart Reid
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An out-of-left-field topic told with humor and style.

Shrimping West Texas: The Rise and Fall of the Permian Sea Shrimp Company by Bart Reid is about the author’s experiences researching, starting up, and operating his West Texas shrimp company. For those that don’t know, the location of his operations was in the Trans-Pecos region of the state, in the Chihuahuan Desert, about 500 miles from the nearest large body of saltwater (the Gulf of Mexico) and about 800 miles from the nearest ocean. Assuming the inhospitable conditions of the setting, the idea this would be even remotely possible piqued my curiosity. What Reid relates is an amazing story of innovation, hard work, and determination, and his ability to tell his story is spellbinding; I read the entire book in one sitting.

The author begins by explaining his very particular combination of background, education, work experiences, and skills that placed him in the unique position to, first of all, consider and then undertake the development of shrimp farming in an inland desert location, not only on his own behalf but for several others who saw the merit and possibilities of the industry. I enjoyed reading about all the different entities and resources he contacted trying to determine the feasibility of the idea and the mechanics of building, operating, and maintaining the resulting operation, from starting up to day-to-day. But, it is his recounting of obstacles met, successes and setbacks, people met and friends made, and the drawbacks to and riches found in small-town living where the book really shines. The author’s humor and engagingly personal delivery elevate his story, making it a favorite for the year. Frankly, I knew from the start I was in for a treat when he opened with an Aggie joke.

I recommend SHRIMPING WEST TEXAS to readers of unusual non-fiction topics, anyone who eats food (get a peek at where some of it comes from), and every Aggie needs one or two on their shelf at home and at work.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Lone Star Book Blog Tours.


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