Attention LBJ nerds: Robert Caro is posting book updates on Instagram.
As Lit Hub’s resident Caro-head, I’m committed to bringing you regular updates on the historian’s progress on his Years of Lyndon Johnson series (searching “Folta Caro” on Lit Hub turns up more results than I remember). And if on Monday.
Robert Caro, a renowned historian, is sharing updates about his upcoming book on Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ) through Instagram. Caro is the author of the Years of Lyndon Johnson series, which examines LBJ's life and political career. The fifth and final book in the series is still in progress, despite Caro estimating in 2011 that it would take only two to three years to complete. The book covers LBJ's involvement in key events such as the Civil Rights Movement, the creation of Medicaid, and the Vietnam War. Caro has rewritten sections on the Civil Rights Movement and completed parts on Medicaid, but the Vietnam section remains challenging.
On September 16, 2026, Caro posted a video on his Instagram account (@robertcaroofficial), revealing new details about his work. In the video, he shows a suitcase containing the outline for the remaining sections of the book, which he describes as extensive. He also displays 1,100 pages of double-spaced, handwritten drafts marked up with pencil. This update has generated excitement among fans, who are eagerly awaiting the book's completion. The Instagram post reflects Caro's meticulous approach to research and writing, a hallmark of his work.
Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ) was the 36th President of the United States, serving from 1963 to 1969. His presidency was marked by significant events, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the escalation of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. The Years of Lyndon Johnson series by Robert Caro aims to provide a comprehensive biography of LBJ, exploring his political rise, leadership style, and impact on American society. Caro's work is known for its depth and thoroughness, often requiring extensive research and writing.
Robert Caro is famous for his rigorous and time-consuming writing process. His books often involve years of research, including interviews, archival work, and on-site investigations. For the Years of Lyndon Johnson series, Caro has spent decades gathering material and refining his narrative. The fifth book, like its predecessors, is expected to be lengthy and detailed. Caro's use of handwritten drafts, which he marks up extensively, is a distinctive part of his workflow. This method ensures accuracy and depth in his historical accounts.
Fans of Robert Caro and LBJ enthusiasts have reacted enthusiastically to the Instagram update. The video has sparked discussions online, with many expressing excitement about the book's progress. Some commenters have humorously urged Caro to focus on finishing the book rather than posting updates. The anticipation reflects the high regard for Caro's work and the importance of the *Years of Lyndon Johnson* series in understanding LBJ's legacy. The update has also highlighted Caro's engagement with modern platforms like Instagram to connect with his audience.
