Everything’s Bigger in Texas: The Life and Times of Kinky Friedman

Kinky Friedman is a larger-than-life character, even for Texas. The entertaining jack of all trades was born Richard Friedman in Chicago 1944. His father, Tom, served in World War II as a pilot; his mother, Minnie, was in the theatre and eventually became a speech therapist. They moved to Houston, where Kinky emerged a chess prodigy. His family opened up a ranch for children, where Kinky indulged his love for the cowboy life. Kinky would develop an affinity for the underdog and civil rights, shared with his father. Kinky would delve into his creative side as a student at the University of Texas. A post-college sojourn in the Peace Corps further diversified his feelings for other cultures. Kinky returned to Texas and formed his first band, The Texas Jewboys. Success would not be instantaneous, but his hard work would propel him into the country music stratosphere. A cocaine addiction would nearly derail his life, but friends and family kept him on the straight and narrow. He would become a successful author, and he would challenge the establishment in multiple elections.

Mary Lou Sullivan has brought the legend of Kinky Friedman to life with this revealing look. A story of a man of distinction and character, the story is relayed by the subject along with family and friends. An excellent biography of a fascinating individual.