David Sojka is an author whose work captures the distinct culture and landscapes of southeast Texas, particularly the Big Thicket, Piney Woods, and Neches River regions. His novels, such as "39: Your Last Birthday," have earned critical acclaim, including the Maxy Award for Literature and Humor and a Readers' Favorite Silver Medal for Southern Fiction. Known for his sharp character development, unexpected plot twists, and authentic dialogue, Sojka's writing reflects the eccentricities of the people and environments he portrays.
Drawing from his upbringing in small-town Texas, Sojka infuses his "Red Dirt Road Novels" with the rhythm and storytelling traditions of country music. Influenced by legends like Hank Williams Jr., Tanya Tucker, and Charley Pride, his narratives blend emotional depth, faith, humor, and blue-collar resilience. His childhood—torn between the devout Baptist community and the rowdy atmosphere of juke joints—shaped his understanding of secrets, redemption, and the complexities of rural life. Sojka continues to reside in southeast Texas, where he writes, paddleboards, and pursues the art of smoking brisket.