Livin la vida Latina

Chica Lit Trivia#1

2012-02-18T09:30:00.000-08:00

Let's test your knowledge of Chica Lit.

We posted the following:

Q: What is the "habit" that is also the title of one of Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez's books?

The first one to post the correct answer will get a copy of that book.

*Please be sure to leave your email address so that we can contact you

Latino Book Festivals 2012

2012-02-07T11:26:00.000-08:00

Last year, the Latino Book and Family Festival was cancelled due to an insufficient budget. Hopefully this year we can bring it back.

Please show your support to make these events happen.

1. Chicago Latino Book and Family Festival - March 31-April 1 2012
2. Los Angeles Book and Family Festival - October 6-7 2012

For more information, log on to http://www.lbff.us/

Review: The Brenda Diaries

2012-01-10T10:50:00.001-08:00

We're back!

To welcome 2012, we kick it off with the newest from Margo Candela--The Brenda Diaries.

Meet Brenda. A temp with a bad attitude, but an excellent work ethic.

Working assignments all around Los Angeles, Brenda was the official purse holder for a high powered event planner, has had an employer ask about her ovulation cycle, worked as a kiosk gypsy at an upscale mall and suffered as the reluctant muse for a frustrated architect who'd rather write screenplays on company time.

Off the clock, Brenda's boyfriend and best friend compete for her attention while she spends a little too much time with guy she met on a job. Brenda’s positive she can handle it all, but sometimes work and life get to be a bit too much even for someone as organized as Brenda.

The Brenda Diaries. All the dirty details of Brenda’s not so tidy life.

Reviewed by: Sandra L.
Rating:
Review: Meet Brenda, a temp office assistant living from paycheck to paycheck, reflecting on how much work sucks. In her diary, we get to know all the day-to-day aspects of her world.

I liked Brenda a lot. She’s a savvy, intelligent woman with strong work ethics, but she doesn’t have life quite figured out. Who does, right? Still, the girl struck me as someone with a good head on her shoulders. At times, I suspected that Brenda suffered from a low self-esteem. Why else would she work at jobs with no possibility of advancement? Why else would she “date” a guy and not really care for him? It all seems like a waste of time to me. Even though I thoroughly enjoyed her no-BS views on life, I just wished Brenda would’ve spent a little more time trying to figure out ways to make herself happy. I honestly don’t get why smart girls don’t give themselves the respect they deserve. But I must say that even though I didn’t always agree with Brenda’s choices, like taking in her promiscuous friend as a roommate, she was still a flawed character that most people could relate to. I definitely saw parts of me in Brenda. I don’t like getting “chummy” with co-workers (or anyone else, for that matter) either, and the whole clingy, touchy-feely boyfriend is also a huge turn-off for me, too.

As stated by the title, this book consisted of nothing but diary entries, all of which summarize the quick highlights of Brenda’s day. At times, I found my energies depleted by the mundane aspects of her daily activities; however, I managed to be revitalized by Candela’s smart and witty commentaries. Fortunately, most of the entries were kept short and to the point. Sometimes you’ll even find yourself laughing at some of them.

Overall, this book was a colorful rendition of humorous anecdotes about work and life; it really didn’t have a story—well, not much anyways. This was more of a depiction of Brenda’s observations instead of her life, which was nothing more than job-hopping. However, at one point, I wondered if there could be more to the character than I originally credited when the temp recruiter said to her, “Maybe it’s time you started working toward something.” (pg. 100) I was impressed when, at the end, Brenda finally embarked on her first step to being a “grown up,” even though it was shrouded in mystery.

I actually look forward to what becomes of Brenda in this series.

We'll be back in 2012!

2011-12-24T14:44:00.000-08:00

Hello,

We are taking a break from all of our reading to enjoy the last few days of 2011. But not to worry, we will be back after the new year.

Until then, have a pleasant and safe holiday.

Saludos a todo!

Winner of our Early X-Mas Gift...

2011-12-08T14:31:00.000-08:00

The winner of our Early X-Mas Gift was...

Mary G.

Congratulations!

An Early X-MAS gift...

2011-11-20T10:57:00.000-08:00

Hey, all!

In honor of the Christmas season, we are giving away an early gift to an LLVL fan.

Here is how you can enter and score points:

Post a comment telling us why you like Livin' la vida Latina

An extra point if you share a book recommendation

An extra point if you put our widget on your blog or site (please include the http address)

All entries must be submitted by December 6, 2011

Please include an email address so we can contact you for your shipping information

Only U.S. residents are eligible (No international locations)

Spread the word and good luck!

The Real Friday Night Chicas

2011-11-18T05:56:00.000-08:00

Now that we have finished our four-part review of the book, the girls get together for a real Friday night. One night. Three hot movies.

With a bowl of popcorn in the middle, we will sit back and watch the most sizzling and hilarious movies of all--Dance with me, Chasing Papi, and Real Women have curves.

We will return with more reviews after this.

Friday Night Chicas - Pt. 4

2011-11-09T06:52:00.000-08:00

The more things changed by Sofia Quintero

Gladys’ friends throw her a bachelorette party at one of NYC’s raunchiest male strip joints. They expected a party, but they didn’t expect the not-so-blushing bride to disappear with one of the strippers!

Reviewed by: Minnie G.

Review: This story begins with Ricky’s POV, but the story is not centered on her; it’s supposed to be on Gladys (at least, that’s what I deduced from the plot summary above.) No, the whole thing is told by Ricky, who is married. Shouldn’t she have been single at least? I mean, that’s what I gathered from the main title of the book: Friday Night Chicas. I assumed every girl in the story was going to be single. Well, certainly for the main character at least.

When Ricky is reunited with her college friends, they play catch-up with the “are you married?” and “do you have any kids?” kind of thing—boring! The only thing that woke me up was Lisa’s secret affair….with a girl! The stripper scenes were kind of gross. My god, those women were practically having sex with these guys right on the stage!

It really only tells more about the past and their friendship, not what’s going on in the present.

I guess it sort’ve made sense that Gladys was not the main character, because you develop an instant dislike to her; and, by the end, you hate her guts. What a horny slut! She should’ve told her fiancé what happened that night.

Really, all this night did was raise some old resentment that divided the foursome. Yet, it also renewed the bond between the dynamic duo—Ricky and Lisa.

Ultimately, I feel that this story just did not belong in a book filled with stories of love burgeoning from a wild Friday night. Not that it was a bad story. It actually was a critical study of how women forge lasting friendships, even if it doesn’t really last forever.

Friday Night Chicas is a good book to curl up with on a cold night when guys aren’t knocking down your door for a date and all you have left are a pair of PJ’s and a warm bottle of tequila.

Friday Night Chicas - Pt. 3

2011-11-06T10:29:00.000-08:00

Revenge of the Fashion Goddess by Berta Platas

The once-shy Cali has decided to attend her high school reunion. She slips into her slinkiest Donna Karan and puts on her highest Manolos. After all, she’s out to seek revenge, Latina style….

Reviewed by: Sandra L.

Review: Okay, first of all, the character’s name was Cali, short for California. Wow, what an interesting name! It’s unique and can be shortened to a cute title. I would almost consider naming my daughter that. I liked how it starts off with Cali wanting to show all the people she went to school with that she wasn’t the same geek anymore. A slap in the face can be so sweet. The former geek’s desire reminded me of Carrie, one of my favorite movies of all time. I secretly wanted Cali to waste them all!

Eventually, Cali meets up with Rick—you know, that guy who was like your best friend but whom you secretly had a crush on. Rick was a hottie! But then Cali finds something out about Rick while hiding in the bathroom stall. It surprised me too!

This story had a bunch of flawed reality, full of repressed fear and personal growth, which made for a true-to-life page-turner. I was glad that this wasn’t about a dog that’s been in heat all these years and is now finally letting go of her inhibitions. No, there was a real lesson to be learned for the main character. After all these years, Cali still needed to “grow” out of her teenage self.

This was the best story of all!

Friday Night Chicas - Pt. 2

2011-11-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

Hearts are Wild by Caridad Piñeiro

It’s Tori’s thirtieth birthday and all she wants is a nice, quiet night with her family and friends. However, Tori’s friends have other plans, and, during an overnight casino cruise, Tori finds herself taking the gamble of her life.

Reviewed by: Celia F.

Review: I liked Tori. I could relate to her in almost every way—from her putting work first above all else, including love, to having friends practically shove a man-whore in your face. Even your own mother!

At first, “Mr. Papi Chulo” (the guy she meets while gambling) seemed like a player (what else would you find in a casino, right?) but then he revealed a shy, clumsy side, which made him a whole lot sexier than showing off all that bravado. I enjoyed how the author turned the tables in the story by having Tori think like a guy with all her rules: no names, no expectations, no disappointments. But then the guy surprised her by thinking like a chick—he wanted to know her name.

I found the ending to be too coincidental, even for a romance story. It definitely could’ve used some more editing. Some phrases just didn’t make sense. I think the author needed to merge her sentences for a better flow.

Friday Night Chicas - Pt. 1

2011-10-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

Here is the first story from Friday Night Chicas

"My Favorite Mistake" by Mary Castillo

Isela isn’t looking for a one-night stand; she’s desperate for one last shot at saving her career. Her ticket is Hollywood’s director du jour Tyler Banks, but one major mistake could cost her everything.

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Review: I have heard of Mary Castillo. Her debut novels included Hot Tamara and In Between Men. I have to say that there was still a lot of the same old awkward phrasing, the kind you don’t see too often and nobody would ever use. However, the author did a great job rendering Isela as a flawed human character with the fear of not being able to make her rent and the clumsiness of standing next to a good-looking hunk like Sebastian. Man, does she get a wonderful surprise when she goes to bed with him. I mean, it literally blew me away!

Afterwards, Isela displayed a mixed combo of vulnerability and strength, which grew exponentially when she decided to get down to business and stop acting like a kid. Mary Castillo is a pretty good story-teller, but it just seems that she should stick to short stories instead of lengthy novels, which seem to go nowhere. Out of all her books, this was the best one. I liked all the little sayings at the beginning of each chapter—very original. Where does she come up with this stuff?

Review: Friday Night Chicas (In Parts)

2011-10-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

Hey, all

We have a special treat for you readers. This week we are reviewing Friday Night Chicas, a collection of stories written by four Latina writers.

Normally, we have one of reviewers rate the entire book; but, this time, we have a different reviewer for each story, and we will post them all right here!

So stay tuned! The first story will be coming up...

Upcoming October Literary Events

2011-09-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

We were sadly stricken by the cancellation of this year's Latino Book and Family Festival usually hosted at Cal State Los Angeles. Last year's festival brought a huge success with the many authors that came to talk about their stories, the book signings, the vendor booths, the live music, and the great food. It was so spectacular that we marked our calendars for the next one; but, unfortunately, due to insufficient funding, the festival will not be returning in 2011.

Not to worry, because we did some digging and discovered some other literary happenings for October (which happens to be Hispanic Heritage Month, by the way.)

Legendary author, Sandra Cisneros, will make at guest appearance at Libreria Martinez - Sept 24 at 3pm (that's today!) http://libreriamartinez.net/events.html

Latina author, Sandra Lopez, speaks at Fullerton Public Library - October 20 at 7pm http://www.sandra-lopez.com/

Teen Read Week at Los Angeles Public Library with YA author, Sandra Lopez - October 22 at 2pm

Victor Villasenor speaks at Libreria Martinez - October 22 at 3pm

Luis Rodriguez will talk about his new book at Libreria Martinez - November 5 at 4pm

Mark your calendars!

Book Review: The Heavens Weep for us

2011-09-10T10:21:00.000-07:00

The Heavens Weep for us: And other stories by Thelma Reyna

If you enjoy Jhumpa Lahiri's short stories, or Sandra Cisneros' ability to portray ordinary Hispanic characters with engaging authenticity and universality, you'll enjoy Thelma Reyna's twelve stories in this thoughtful, moving, sensitive book. From the sheer poetry of the title story, to the complex depiction of a comatose woman and her guilt-ridden unfaithful husband, Reyna exposes the private griefs and losses we all experience in life and imbues her motley cast of characters with deep humanity, courage, and perseverance . Reyna's style is alternately quiet and intense, yet always insightful, poetic, and literary. Have a box of Kleenex and a dictionary by your side. She'll leave you thinking and discovering multiple layers of meanings in her stories long after you've read them. A Hispanic-American author, Reyna's stories speak to all of us, across ethnicities, age, gender, and social status.

Reviewed by: Bela M.
Rating:

Review: The Heavens Weep for Us is a collection of short stories that are suppose to make you laugh and cry at the same time. I'll be honest--most of the stories did not have that effect on me; however, there was one that did. In "Little Box," an old lady named Petra visits her daughter and son-in-law in Chicago. During her stay, she takes the dog for a walk and discovers a little box along the way. It was a fancy box that just screamed, 'expensive.' Being that she likes collecting hand-me-downs, Petra took the box and hid it in drawer of her daughter's home. Her plan was to take it back home and add it to her vast collection. But Petra noticed something else during her Chicago visit. Her daughter's marriage may be falling apart. Not wanting to interfere, Petra leaves them to hash it out. Eventually, Petra jumps on a plane back to Arizona when she realizes that she forgot the little box she wanted to bring back with her. And that little box ends up causing some big trouble for her daughter's marriage. The conclusive irony was hilarious and sad.

Reyna has proven her great talent with a sensitive writing style used in these stories. I did, however, feel that some of these stories were unfinished--they had a solid beginning and a middle, but no ending. A story should have all three: a beginning, a middle, and an ending. Nonetheless, the best story was "Little Box."

Winner of "The Bolero of Andi Rowe"

2011-08-29T06:53:00.000-07:00

The winner of The Bolero of Andi Rowe by Toni Plummer is......

Sandra L.

Congratulations!

Interview with Toni Plummer

2011-08-17T10:21:00.001-07:00

Hola!

Today we have author Toni Plummer talking about her book, The Bolero of Andi Rowe.

Toni Margarita Plummer is the author of The Bolero of Andi Rowe and a winner of the Miguel Mármol Prize for a first work of fiction by a Latino author. She attended the University of Notre Dame and the Master of Professional Writing Program at the University of Southern California. She is a fellow of the Macondo Foundation. An editor at a New York publishing house, Toni lives in Brooklyn.

Q: Can you please tell us a little bit about the kinds of books you write and how your culture affects your craft?

A: My first book is a collection of short stories, The Bolero of Andi Rowe. And it is a recurring character and I modeled her cultural background after my own: her mother is from Mexico and her father is Irish-American. I really wanted to explore the idea of conflicting identities in these stories. For example, Andi's sister, Maura, doesn't look Latina, and yet she is. So how does she relate to other Latinos and how does she fit in? Also, I write a story about a border patrol agent. He's different from the other agents he works with in that his own mother crossed the border illegally before he was born. At the same time, he's black, so the Mexicans crossing don't identify with him until he speaks to them in Spanish. A lot of my characters are Latino but they're also distinctly American, and that's how I see myself.

Q: Please describe the Latina heroine(s) in your book.

A: We see some very different Latina heroines. Olivia Real was born in Mexico City. She lost her parents at a young age and was raised by her grandmother in a very traditional and strict household. She started working early and got married young, to her first boyfriend. Her daughters, Andi and Maura, have a very different life. They are in college, free to study their interests because their mother supports their education. They didn't grow up speaking Spanish.

Dulce Moreno is a teacher at the Catholic elementary school Andi and Maura attended. She's 35 and single and has always lived with her mother, except when she was in college. She's very close to her mother, so when she passes, Dulce is at a loss as to what to do with her life.
And then we have Teresa, a teenager grappling with her sexual orientation and faith.

Q: Who is your intended audience, if any?

A: I hope the book will appeal to people wanting to read about Latino characters or about life in Southern California. In their review, Booklist said the stories "speak universally" and that was certainly a goal of mine. These stories deal with the search for home, first love, the death of loved ones--those are all things that everyone can relate to.

Q: How do you feel your books influence Latinas?

A: I don't know that the book will influence anyone exactly. I hope that Latinas will relate to the characters and the situations, and that in these stories they'll also find a unique take on the Latino experience.

Q: What does being Latina mean to you?

A: Being Latina is a part of my heritage and I value it very much. There is so much beauty in the Mexican culture, and in the wider Latin American culture. On an everyday level, there's the language, the music, the food, the particular religious devotions. These are all things and rituals which help us to embrace being Latina. At the same time, it's hard for me to articulate exactly what it means to me. I think I write to understand the answer. It's very important to me as a writer to explore this question--it's something I want to share with a wider American and international audience.

Q: What do you think the future holds for today’s Latina ?

A: I think it holds anything and everything. Latinas have achieved much, in literature, the arts, politics...you name it. There's still a lot to accomplish. As long as we continue to pursue education, Latinas are going to continue to push the boundaries and to excel in a number of fields.

Q: What are some of your favorite Latina authors and why?

A: I love Sandra Cisneros, Lorraine López, Julia Alvarez, María Amparo Escandón, Cristina García, and Dahlma Llanos-Figueroa, just to name a few. Each of these authors is wonderful with language and they write characters that I care about. They each capture the beauty, sadness, and humor of life, in their own distinct ways.

Q: Do you have a website or a blog? If so, please list the URL:

A: I don't have a website, but I'm on Twitter: @tmargaritaplum
This is the publisher's site: http://www.nupress.northwestern.edu/Title/tabid/68/ISBN/0-8101-2767-9/Default.aspx

As an added bonus, the author would like to give away one copy of her book to a commenter.

For a chance to win, just post a comment or question to this blog post. A winner will be selected and announced on Aug 29, 2011.

Please be sure to include your email address so we can contact you for your shipping information.

Good luck!

Free Read: The Maid's Daughter

2011-08-05T10:17:00.000-07:00

Hello, readers!

We would like to thank everyone for their patience while we worked out the kinks in our network.

To show our appreciation, here is a free read!

The Maid's Daughter by Mary Romero - A book about growing up Latina in America.

Library Journal calls the book, “A valuable case study and a dramatic life story, this oral history explores identity and illuminates race, class, and gender in America at a peculiarly intimate intersection between upper-middle-class white families and the women of color who provide domestic labor for them.”

The afterword is now available on scribd.com.

Here’s the web address: http://www.scribd.com/doc/61057126/Crossing-the-Border.

Feel free to check it out and pass it along!

Interview with Mayra Calvani

2011-07-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

Today, we have Latina author, Mayra Calvani, talking about her book Sunstruck

About the author: Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults and has authored over a dozen books, some of which have won awards. She’s co-editor of Voice in the Dark Ezine and a reviewer & columnist for Blogcritics Magazine, Midwest Book Review and Latino Books Examiner. Her articles, stories and interviews have appeared on numerous publications both in print and online. In addition, she regularly offers writing workshops at SavvyAuthors.com. Visit her website at http://www.mayracalvani.com/. For her children’s books, visit http://www.mayrassecretbookcase.com/.

Q: What is the meaning of the title, “Sunstruck?”

I think the metaphor suits my naive protagonist, Daniella. Plus, it’s really hot in Puerto Rico, so it makes sense. Daniella lives her life as if she’s in a daze. She lets her boyfriend take advantage of her and doesn’t know what do with her future. There’s something wrong with someone whose favorite hobby is spending time with her cat—no matter how much she loves that cat!

Q: How did you come up with the concept?

The idea for this book stemmed from two factors: my personal observations of Puerto Rican artists when I was a teen and my love for satiric writing. My mother was--and still is--an artist, and although she’s ‘retired’ now, back in the early eighties she was an active painter in San Juan, showing her works at art exhibits and galleries regularly. She took me everywhere with her, so I attended all these shows and activities and I observed.

Let me tell you something, the art scene can be extremely interesting and that is because so many artists are eccentric, unconventional people. There’s so much competition, jealousy and gossip! Anyway, I guess all these experiences must have made an impression on me. When the time came to write my book, I knew these were the people and situations I wanted to write about. I decided I would make the book a parody, this way I could keep it upbeat and have the freedom to exaggerate to the point of being ridiculous.

Q: I liked Daniella’s obsession with pirates. Are you a pirate buff? Is your favorite movie The Pirates of the Caribbean?

My favorite movie definitely isn’t The Pirates of the Caribbean! I do enjoy old pirate films, though. I used to watch them all the time when I was a kid. I’m kind of a pirate buff, I guess. My favorite ride in Disney World is ‘Pirates of the Caribbean,’ and I’ve always been attracted to the idea of writing a pirate novel. Maybe I will in the future.

Q: Daniella mentions off and on that she wants to be “free of men” but yet does nothing about it. I suspected that she had some “daddy issues.” Did you ever consider including something about her absent father figure in the story? And if so, what would that have told us about Daniella and the way she is?

That’s funny that you mention that. I originally had a segment in the book where she receives a telephone call from her father, but later I took it out. Her father left her and her mom when Daniella was a little girl. So there are definitely feelings of abandonment and not being ‘good enough.’ Then, as you must have noticed, she seems to be attracted to men who are much older than herself. A big part of why Daniella is the way she is comes from her father’s absence. I think this is very obvious in the story. His total absence makes it even stronger, which is why I wanted to leave it that way.

Q: What is the connection Daniella has with her cat? Is the cat a substitute for something or someone in her life? If so, what?

The cat is always there for her when she needs him—more than can be said for the men in her life… or her father, right?

Q: I liked how you added the crazy Zorro character. Did you ever consider of turning this book into a thriller or mystery with this Zorro in the mix? And if so, did you see Daniella as the one who would catch this guy?

No, this book was always a parody in my mind. I wanted to keep things light and fun, yet, at the same time, make readers wonder about human nature.

Q: My favorite quote is: “If [Daniella] could choose a place to die, she would choose a bookstore, a coffin made of hardcover mystery books.” (pg. 113) Is this your dream?

Ha! I’m glad you enjoyed that! It’s not my dream, but it sure beats a regular coffin if you’re a bookworm like me. It makes me think of ancient Egypt, when they used to bury the person surrounded with all the things she would need in her afterlife.

Q: Most of the time, Daniella seems despondent and it made her do things she doesn’t like. Was this more a study of psychological depression and human behavior? Did you study psychology in school?

I didn’t study psychology in school, but I have read a lot of psychology books during my lifetime. Also, you can get quite an education about human nature from Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot stories! I didn’t intend Daniella’s story to be a study about human depression, but I think your observation is very perceptive. I think there’s a lot under the surface in this novel, if you go deep and are looking for such things.

Q: The whole story has a “men vs. women” political debate. What message did you want to relay? Did you do any research from Puerto Rico history?

Not any systematic research, no. The book is based on what I observed all throughout my childhood and teenage years. Because Sunstruck is a parody/satire, I exaggerated the situations to the point of ridicule (I had fun doing that!).

I guess my message is that all extremes are bad, no matter to what side you belong to.

Q: This book is classified as “women’s fiction.” What do you hope women will gain from reading this?

Hopefully, they will be empowered by Daniella’s story. In spite of Daniella’s flaws—and she has many—I think all of us can identify with her in one way or another. By understanding her lack of confidence and ability to focus and take charge of her life, perhaps women can gain a little insight into how to become stronger themselves.

Q: Do you feel your book will inspire young Latinas?

I hope so! I also hope it will entertain them and make them think a little about the importance of having self confidence and independence.

Q: Any words of encouragement for the Latinas? How about the writers?

Whether you want to become a writer or not, whatever your goal is, dreaming is just part of it. Yes, it all starts with a dream. But planning and staying focused are key components for reaching your goals. It doesn’t matter if you only have time to take a few tiny steps each day or even each week. What matters is to be persistent. Steady progress is the key to success.

Q: What are you working on next?

I’m working on a novel this summer, book I of a 4-book series for young adults. I’m very excited about it. Hopefully I’ll complete the first draft by the end of September.

Thank you! Be sure to check out more about Mayra Calvani on http://www.mayracalvani.com/

Review: Becoming Latina in 10 Easy Steps

2011-07-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Becoming Latina in 10 Easy Steps by Lara Rios

With no marriage prospects and a high-powered career, Marcela Alvarez is already a spinster in the eyes of her traditional family. But when she finds out her deadbeat dad wasn't Latino, her problems only worsen. It's time for her to change some things and prove she still has Chicana roots with a fool-proof ten-step plan, including:

- Dating Mexican men. Her work crush, George Ramirez, almost fills the bill-except that he can't speak Spanish...
- Learning to cook, homestyle. Now, she can't even make mac and cheese without burning the house down. But that's nothing a few private cooking lessons can't fix, especially with a hot maestro...
- Mentoring an at-risk Latina. But with Lupe's switchblade and bad attitude, Marcela starts to wonder: which of them is more at risk...

And when she's done, she'll be able to out-Latina her sisters and cousins, no problem. But who knew being herself could be so much work?

Reviewed by Sandra Lopez

Rating: Review: Marcela just found out she's half white because her mother had an affair with someone else, so now she doesn't know who she is. Then a comment from her family sends her on a mission: to prove that she is as much Latina as any of them. So she begins this 10-step program--really, they're a bunch of cliches for Mexicans (i.e. Spanish cooking, good dancers, etc.) If she was going to add a bunch of stereotypes, she might've also included knowing Spanish and living in a barrio--all totally Mexican, by the way.

I was so envious of Marcela because she had the job I've always wanted--Animator. Lucky dog.

The first thing she does is start dating Mexican men. The typical Mexican would've just crossed the border and would speak no English. Instead, she was stupid enough to date a cholo that nearly raped her on the first "date." I would've taken a wetback over a cholo any day. But then George, a guy that works in the Accounting Dept., captures her eye, even though he was no "Mexican." At first, he was pretty dull, but then he started growing on me as I read on. Girls, you should always go for the nerds. Who knows? They may be hiding a body under all that suit.

It was admirable how Marcela takes in a troubled teen like Lupe and shows her the world of web design. How brave she was to trust her near her computer on the first night. Things get very rough for Marcela when Lupe's bro enters the scene. She gets cuffed and thrown in jail because of him. Honestly, I don't know if Marcela was brave or stupid. Who would put themselves in danger like that? And for what--to prove something to her family?

And George (even though he turned out to be a hunk,) what was up with him? Why are guys such chicks? One romp in the sack and he was ready to move in with Marcela. Whoa, Nelly! Slow down!

Still, I liked how Marcela thought she deserved a nice guy like George, even if he did wanted to marry her from the start. She becomes a real genuine person when she stops and looks around at what life is like on the other side of the tracks (East L.A., Mexico.)

I enjoyed the writer's sense of humor and style. A great book about finding yourself and becoming a better person. Even though the character does evade from the 10 steps (in other words, she doesn't really do them all,) she was a real character with flaws, hopes, and fears. I could definitely relate to her.

Review: Hasta La Vista, Baby

2011-06-25T12:28:00.000-07:00

Hasta La Vista, Baby by Donna Del Oro

Reviews:

"I thought it was great. I mean, I was hooked from the very first page because of all the wit and humor. I found myself laughing a few times ...and that was only the first three chapters!" ---Sandra Lopez, author of ESPERANZA and BEYOND THE GARDENS

"A fun romp to read! Hasta La Vista, Baby is a deft mix of humor and raw emotion with unforgettable characters. Donna Del Oro is an author to watch!" -- Loucinda McGary, award-winning author of THE WILD SIGHT and THE TREASURES OF VENICE.

HASTA LA VISTA, BABY is a romantic comedy set in Silicon Valley. Sonya, the artist, is blind to everything but beauty. She learns the hard way that it's never too late to wake up, wise up and grow up! Muralist Sonya Reyes Barton experiences an emotional meltdown when her handsome, cheating husband, Earl, announces at a family BBQ that he needs a divorce so he can marry his pregnant girlfriend. In front of all the Bartons, Sonya has a nervous breakdown, chases Earl with a barbecue fork, eventually winds down and collapses. How does the worst day of Sonya's life eventually become the best thing that ever happens to her? How does she gain insight into herself and her choice of men? More importantly, how does Sonya learn to forgive herself and move on? There's still life after forty-two and she's determined to find it

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rating: Review: One of the funniest things in this story is at the very beginning when Sonya has just found out that her husband of many years is dumping her for his pregnant girlfriend. Sonya absolutely goes berserk and starts chasing him around the pool with a BBQ fork. I laughed so hard at that.

For like the next year or so, we follow Sonya's journey in life as she struggles with this loss and sudden change to her existence. She visits every single stage in the mourning process: hate, anger, denial, pity, and finally, acceptance. Eventually, she comes to realize that she must accept the reality and move on.

Although, how can you really be that heartbroken over a guy named Earl? Really, Earl? He was described as a blond surfer dude, but how many blond surfers are named Earl? Surfers are named Zack or Shawn or some other cooler name; not Earl.

Also, how can you begin a dating relationship with your brother-in-law? That's what Sonya eventually does in the story. She ends starting something with her ex-husband's brother, Scott. Really, how weird is that?

For me, personally, it was kind of hard to relate to Sonya's story because I've never been married, but it was definitely a well-written account of marital woes for those who have been there or are going through it. I think OPERATION FAMILIA was actually the author's best novel because it had it all--drama, suspense, romance, and humor! This was just an okay book.

Interview with Teresa Dovalpage

2011-06-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

Today, we feature Latina writer, Teresa Dovalpage, author of Habanera: A Portrait of a Cuban Family.

Welcome, Teresa.

1. Can you please tell us about the kinds of stories you write?

Up to a few months ago I was writing primarily about Cuba. All my published books, in English and in Spanish, (Posesas de la Habana, A Girl like Che Guevara, Muerte de un murciano en la Habana, El Difunto Fidel, Habanera) either have Cuban characters or the plot takes place in Cuba, but I find myself more and more interested in science fiction and esoteric themes right now. Maybe that’s a consequence of living in a mystical place like Taos, New Mexico.

2. Is Habanera based on your life or experience?

Yes. In fact, it started as a memoir but when I realized (with my mother’s help) that I had embellished the story too much, I turned it into a novel. It is definitely inspired by real events, but also seasoned with made-up stuff.

3. What inspired this story?

My crazy family life. Dysfunctional families are wonderful sources of inspiration—particularly when one is finally away from them and can look at them with certain detachment, and even laugh at things that used to be exasperating or embarrassing.

4. Are you an only child like the main character?

Yes, and Longina is pretty much based on myself. Since it began as a memoir, the first and second parts are the ones closer to reality. But we didn’t have a ghost at home, as far as I know…

5. What was Longina’s fascination with funerals?

She inherited it from her grandfather, whose favorite place to visit was the Havana cemetery. My grandfather, a quirky recluse like Ponciano, loved to go there because it was free and there were few people around.

6. What was the psychological reasoning behind Longina’s “throwing up?” And why did she stop when her grandmother left?

That episode is also autobiographical. I was being smothered to death, like Longina. My grandma made such a big deal of the fact that I didn’t eat as much as she wanted me to that I dreaded dinnertime and vomited with an alarming frequency. When my grandma travelled to Miami, just like Muñeca, I felt free to eat (or not to eat) and I began to have a healthier relationship with food.

And by the way, I wasn’t anorexic. In fact, being rubenesque and having a big butt were signs of beauty in Cuba then. I actually wanted to become chunkier for a long time, without success.

7. What was the writing process like? Any advice for new writers?

I write and rewrite, write and rewrite…Let things cool off for a while, review…repeat.

8. Who is your intended audience for this book?

Primarily Cuban exiles who want to know what the island has become after 50 years of communism. It can also be of interest to younger Cuban Americans who would like to find out more about the land of their ancestors. (I have noticed that many of them prefer to read in English, even if they speak Spanish fluently.) And it can be marketed to academics and to a broader readership curious about contemporary life in Cuba.

9. What do you hope people will get from reading your book?

I hope to transmit a portrait of life in today’s Cuba, how people talk and think, as well as the younger generation’s view on politics and life.

10. Do you consider yourself a woman writer or a Latina writer? Why?

Ay, Dios mío… I never think in such terms, I am just a writer. But if I had to choose, I’d probably say Latina writer, since the fact that I am a woman is already implied in Latina.

11. What are you working on next?

I am currently working with Patricia Padilla, a Taos-based eighth generation curandera, on a book about Curanderismo. Its title is 101 Questions to a Curandera and it will be published in English and in Spanish.

12. Do you have a website where we can learn more from you?

My website needs to be updated but I have two blogs. One in English, where I post the articles I write for our local newspaper, The Taos News, and other publications http://teredovalpage.wordpress.com/

To watch a book trailer of Habanera, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSB-2HqBBMQ

Reviews

Habanera, by Stephen Karl, originally published in the Adirondack Review
html">http://adirondackreview.homestead.com/book131.html
Best Fiction Bookshttp://bestfictionbook.blogspot.com/2011/01/habanera-portrait-of-cuban-family.html

A portrait of these Cuban times, by Margaret Duran, Ph.D. http://www.ernestospage.blogspot.com/

A sad song to Havana, by Olga Karman, published in LatinoLA http://latinola.com/story.php?story=9090

More info can be found at http://www.dovalpage.com/

Review: Las Niñas

2011-06-07T06:50:00.000-07:00

Today, we review Las Niñas: A Collection of childhood memories by Sarah Rafael García.

Las Niñas is a collection of autobiographical childhood memories of three Mexican-American sisters. It recounts their struggles while being raised as the first generation born in America of their Mexican family. Las Niñas portrays common situations that immigrant families can relate to through their own process of cultural assimilation. Each chapter is a different childhood memory celebrating culture, life and change through humor and self-reflection. Its creative style and unique display of a child's perception will entice many genres of readers and provide insight on the possible challenges that many recent immigrants face with their family's new generation in America. The childhood memories lightly touch on issues of immigration, learning English as a second language and assimilating into the American culture. Las Niñas reveals the most humorous, intimate and traumatic events that occurred as Sarita, Chuchen and Nini grew up in their family's new country, ultimately providing the foundation for surviving their father's death at such a young age. The bond among the three sisters allows the reader to feel their family's pride and growth in a dual culture. Nevertheless, the reader's own entertainment and personal relevance will be the greatest contributor to Las Niñas popularity and triumph. Las Niñas represent an honest and heart-felt account of first generation Latinas, American-born girls, who grew up in a Mexican cultural cocoon, to open it and converge in to their outgoing personalities into middle class ethnic America.

Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez

Rating:

Review: I was so impressed by this writer's amazing talent.

La Niñas is a short autobiography about three young girls growing up as a first-generation Mexican-American family in the U.S. Each memory reads like a short story. It navigates the experience from a child's perspective but carries an adult philosophy with compelling revelation. This book explored the daily issues that many immigrant families go through when assimilating to a new, unfamiliar country. Like most childhood memories, there were good times, bad times, and most often confusing times (especially for a little girl.) In "Chair, Chair, Chair," little Sarah has to give a speech in front of her entire school. The thing is her primary language was Spanish, and when she said "chair" for the very first time, her teacher made fun of her. Of course, the rest of the Spanish-speaking students were afraid to step up and speak--a common sight among our public school system.

One of my favorite parts was when the girls were fighting each other over the bathroom due to diarrhea they got from peanut butter. They called it "peeing from the butt." I laughed at that part. I also liked that each story foretold a life lesson the author acquired from growing up. Like when the Vietnamese family wanted to buy her dog, Twinkie, just so they could eat it. Ewe! Who wouldn't find that disgusting? But then her father explained that every culture has different traditions and they should not be judged by it. Just like Mexicans eat cow's head. Very true!

This book was a great example of growing up Latina. It definitely made me question my cultural issues and reflect back on my family. Write down the name Sarah Rafael Garcia--she's about to be the next Sandra Cisneros.

Review: In Between Men

2011-06-02T08:08:00.000-07:00

In Between Men by Mary Castillo

What else could go wrong for 29-year-old ESL teacher and single mom Isa Avellan after she's been voted the un-sexiest woman alive by the entire student body?

Well . . .

She could be knocked unconscious by a well-kicked soccer ball and wind up saddled with a guardian angel who looks and sounds a lot like Joan Collins.

She could have to endure the on-air ravings of her flojo ex-husband as he reveals every intimate, humiliating detail of their sex life to an infamous shock-jock . . . on national radio!

Or she could take matters into her own hands and submit to a total makeover, from lipstick to toenail polish to lacy lingerie. And with the help of some well-meaning (if slightly loca) tías, she could become L.A.'s most ravishing reborn sex goddess, say adios to the past, and see about capturing the attention of a hot new man. But the new Isa is about to find out that it's not so easy juggling motherhood, career, and sex-symbol status. It could, however, turn out to be a whole lot of fun.

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rating:

Review: This book was a little bit better than Ms. Castillo's first novel, Hot Tamara. First of all, the whole "working, single mother" routine is a very common scenario among women, and I felt that it was well-portrayed with genuine sincerity. Isa Avellan is one of those single moms, who is struggling to get over a bad divorce and raise a son the best way she could. She has also been recently voted as the unsexiest teacher in school. How humiliating is that? Then comes Alex, her son's soccer coach. And who could not fall for Alex? He shows Isa that, yeah, even moms can be sexy. One of Ms. Castillo's gifts is the ability to draw men realistically--with flaws, fears, and disgruntled emotions that are often hidden behind a sheath of masculinity. I can see these men in real life (not literally, of course, although I wish I could.) However, we still ran into the same writing issues from Hot Tamara--like the bad Spanish and awkward phrasing. Still, they don't detach the reader from the story too much. I'd say this is probably Ms. Castillo's best book.

Review: Evenings at the Argentine Club

2011-05-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

Today we feature Evenings at the Argentine Club by Julia Amante

Victor and Jaqueline Torres imagined moving to the U.S. would bring happiness and prosperity-instead they found a world of frustration. While Victor put long hours into his restaurant business, Jaqui devoted her life to her daughters, until they grew up and moved on. Even their eldest, Victoria, is torn trying to reconcile being the perfect Argentine daughter and an independent American woman. Antonio and Lucia Orteli face the same realities, especially when their only son Eric leaves their close-knit Argentine community in pursuit of his own dreams. When Eric unexpectedly shows up at the Argentine Club-the heart of the Argentine community in southern California-he starts a series of events that will bring these two families closer than ever. New relationships are formed and old ones are put to the test, as everyone must learn how to balance different

Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez
Rating:

Review: The whole story centers around the Argentine Club--a business owned by a working family that migrated to America for a better life. Victor, the father, who wants to leave something "great" before leaving this life; Victoria, the daughter, who never wanted to run her father's business; and Jaqueline, the mother, who fears she may no longer love her husband. Eventually, another family enters the story: Antonia, Lucia, and their son, Eric.

Written from a multi-character perspective, this book pulls you into a world of Argentine culture and values. With every character's personal issues, the story takes on a complexity that intertwines into the livelihood (and gossip) of the club. At times, I felt that there were too many characters to keep track of. I usually like it when a story is centered more on one, two, or even three characters at most. With this story, I sometimes asked myself, "Whose dad was he again?" I kept forgetting. But that was mostly in the beginning. Luckily, I got to know the characters more and more as I got deeper into the book.

Each chapter had a tad too much drama for my taste that it sometimes felt exhausting; however, as secrets are slowly revealed, you can't help but find out how it all ends. I enjoyed the blossoming romance between Victoria and Eric. Growing up, they began as friends; but they ended up falling into a deep love that they could not get anywhere else. It was like falling in love with the kid next door--the kid that kept all your secrets, the one that never made fun of you, the one that always accepted you for the way you were and still hung out with you. Those two were great together! But with Eric at the possibility of leaving again and Victoria finally going after her dreams, I couldn't help but wonder how things were going to turn out for them. A must read!

Review: Beyond the Gardens

2011-05-15T08:24:00.000-07:00

Today we feature a book by one of our favorite Latina authors (the one who designed this blog, BTW,) Sandra Lopez! Her newest YA novel has been out for almost two years now and has received some great reviews. We are proud to present our review for Beyond the Gardens.

At the age of 18, Esperanza Ignacio begins her college years at an upscale Los Angeles art school, where she studies to fulfill her long-term dream in Animation. But she soon learns the truth to the old folktale: “you can take the girl out of the barrio, but you can’t take the barrio out of the girl.” Even though she’s getting financial aid, Esperanza works a part-time job during her break from classes just to make ends meet. Her roommate, Anna, is what she calls a “chicana from Beverly Hills” because of the rich daddy and the new car she got for her quinceañera.

Things get a little confusing for Esperanza when an old friend comes looking for her, hoping to start a meaningful relationship. But is Carlos the right guy for her? She never even considered him to be anything more than a friend since high school. Then comes Jake, a gorgeous mechanic, who shares her passion for books and loves her for who she is. What’s a girl to do?

Strength and determination help pave the way for the future. And, as she approaches her graduation, she is faced with a difficult decision: should she leave Los Angeles and leave behind her family, her home, and everything she’s known? Ever since she was born in the California barrio of Hawaiian Gardens, she’s always had to look over the fence, wondering what she’s been missing. Now she’s taking a flying leap over to see what’s beyond the little barrio. What’s beyond her family, her friends, and her past? What’s beyond the little nothing town, where dreams don’t exist? What’s beyond The Gardens? Is it life, love, a future? The story of Esperanza is finally concluded in this wildly entertaining and heart-warming sequel.

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rating:
Review: After reading Esperanza, you can bet how much I was looking forward to reading this sequel. Esperanza is now in college! She is living her life the way she’s always wanted—on campus away from her mother and barrio neighborhood. Suddenly, her life is upended when friends from her past re-enter: Carlos, who is now interested in her romantically, and his sister, Carla, who had urged Esperanza to marry her brother in high school. Esperanza also contends with her roommate, a rich Chicana; and with Jake, a hunky mechanic who seems to be her soulmate. Life becomes complicated for Esperanza as she constantly wonders what is "beyond the gardens" of her barrio, and what life can possibly hold for her.

This was a very quick and enjoyable read.

Lopez’s story comes across as a somewhat autobiographical fiction, and her character, Esperanza, is someone I really liked. She’s neurotic, an over-achiever, and totally entertaining. She’s a young Latina from the barrio, making a life for herself by breaking out of all expectations and stereotypes. I love this about her, and I think most of us can see ourselves in her.

This is a love story and an inspiration to young ladies who are less apt to try to be beauty queens and more likely to try and use their brains to better themselves. Funny and romantic. Be sure to jot down the name Sandra Lopez as you will be hearing more from her in the future.

Cinco de Mayo Winner!

2011-05-09T06:28:00.000-07:00

And the winner is.......

Patricia of Patricia's Dreams

Congratulations!

Cinco de Mayo Giveaway!

2011-05-05T06:37:00.001-07:00

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, we have a new giveaway.

HABANERA: A PORTRAIT OF A CUBAN FAMILY

Rules:

To enter, please post a comment in this entry with your name and email address

Only U.S. residents are eligible (No international o PO box address)

Entries must be posted by midnight, 12pm, Pacific Standard Time on May 8, 2011

A winner will be announced on May 9, 2011

Good luck!

Review: Hot Tamara

2011-05-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

Hot Tamara by Mary Castillo

Tamara Contreras will never again settle for unmemorable sex. Her long-time boyfriend may look perfect to her traditional Mexican-American parents -- something Tamara has never been -- but at twenty-six she wants more from life than marriage and motherhood. So in front of everyone, Tamara does the unthinkable: She turns down her boyfriend's unexpected marriage proposal and leaves home for L.A.

Tamara thinks she's got the single-girl-in-the-city thing down, until she runs into Will Benavides, the former high school bad boy turned firefighter. If Tamara's parents had known how Will lit up her teenage fantasies, she'd have been shipped off to the nuns for sure! Now Will wants to make those fantasies come true permanently.

When an unexpected opportunity lands in her lap and Tamara has to choose between the career and the man of her dreams, she wonders if maybe la familia was right after all . . .

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rated: Review: FAIR WARNING: Right away in chapter one, you get hit with this confusing Spanish--"La va a pesar" and "No le veo la punta." What does that mean? Has the author even heard Spanish?

The story then begins with a public proposal to Tamara, who has been living under the control and constant scrutiny of her overbearing mother. C'mon, how can anyone say "no" to a proposal with everyone watching and expecting you to say "yes?" I would've ran away from the scene too. I would've looked like the road runner and left dust trails in my speed.

Then Will enters the picture. He is so HOT! Reminds me of (fireman) Geoff Stults from 7th Heaven--that church show. And Will was an artist too! Hot!

I did not like the whole back-and-forth thing when Will and Tamara had their first kiss. It was annoying and really unnecessary to the flow. It was like listening to a song, then, half way through, stopping it and having to go back to the first part.

The whole thing is written in multi-character perspective, which is fine with me; but I just don't like it when the perspective keeps changing in the same chapter, in the same paragraph. The author should've kept that more uniform. Also, the attraction between Will and Tamara was sort've surreal--in other words, not genuine. It seemed like they were just slapped together at the last minute to make the story work. And, another thing, the book was full of awkward phrasing, like, "Her hair whispered against the pillow." Hair doesn't whisper! I don't even know what this means. No doubt about it that this book could've used some more editing.

Overall, this is an okay book if you like a fast and easy Harlequin Romance with VERY LITTLE Spanish flavor (honestly, you can hardly even taste it.)

Two Book Festivals this weekend!

2011-04-28T08:16:00.000-07:00

Two festivals are happening this weekend!

L.A. Times Festival of Books

The annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books will be held:

Saturday April 30, 2011 from 10am – 6pm
Sunday, May 1, 2011 from 10am – 5pm at:
University of Southern California
Click here for map.
To locate USC on Yahoo! Maps or similar mapping software, you may use the intersection of Exposition Blvd and S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90089.

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books’ 2011 Change of Address.

Tickets & Admission
General attendance is free!
For information on attending, see our Attendee FAQ.

Parking
Parking at the USC campus will be $10.
Please go to the Getting There page for a detailed map.

LeaLA - Feria del Libro

LeaLA features books in Spanish April 30 to May 1

Which will you attend?

Winner: More than this

2011-04-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

AND THE WINNER IS......

Kesia Saenz

Congratulations!

An email has been sent notifying the winner. Thank you all for playing!

Giveaway: More than this

2011-04-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

A NEW GIVEAWAY!

Our prize for this month is More than this by Margo Candela.

Rules:

To enter, please comment on this post with your name and email address

Only U.S. residents are eligible (No P.O. Boxes)

Contestants must enter by midnight, 12 pm Pacific Standard Time, on April 23, 2011

A winner will be announced on this site on April 24

Good luck!

Pics from the Tucson Festival of Books 2011

2011-03-27T12:48:00.001-07:00

The Tucson Festival of Books 2011, which took place at the University of Arizona, was a hit (we heard.) We're so glad that Latina author, Sandra Lopez, was kind enough to share some pictures from that fabulous weekend!

Latinos Moving Forward panel

Sandra Lopez with Kathy Cano-Murillo

Sandra Lopez with members of Nuestras Raices

Review: B as in Beauty

2011-03-20T10:44:00.000-07:00

B as in Beauty by Alberto Ferreras

Everyone in the world, it seems, is either prettier or thinner (or both) than Beauty Marie Zavala. And the only thing "B" resents more than her name is the way others judge her for the extra 40 pounds she can't lose. At least she has her career. Or did, until she overhears her boss criticizing her weight and devising a scheme to keep her from being promoted. Enter B's new tax accountant, a modern-day matchmaker determined to boost B's flagging self-esteem by introducing her to rich, successful men who will accept her for who she is. As B's confidence blossoms, so do her fantasies of revenge. But will B find true happiness or true disaster when she unwittingly falls for the one guy she shouldn't?

Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez, author of Esperanza
Rating:

Review:"B" is someone we can all relate to. She is all of the above and more--a woman who is not happy in her own skin; a woman whose body is not accepted by "skinny" society; a woman who is the "Mexican Burro" at her job (the only one who does any real work;) and, finally, like many of us, she is a woman desperately trying to climb up the corporate ladder for a better salary, a better lifestyle, a better everything.

I liked "B." She was a funny, sassy broad that told it like it was. You can't help but feel bad for her at the way she gets treated because of her weight. No dates, no promotion, no reason to even be seen in the world. But then, suddenly, being a "comfort provider" for a select clientele awakens a new-found confidence in "B" that makes her see herself for the very first time. As the story progresses, we get to experience the kinds of clients she meets. Most of them were just plain weird; some were even kind of nasty. Reading this book made it feel like I was reading the diary of a "fat chick"--where I learned all about her hopes, fears, and insecurities about her self-image.

By the end, I felt that "B" learned a great lesson we should all incorporate: "Change the things you can't accept; and accept the things you can't change."

Overall, I enjoyed the laid-back writing style that you easily fall into. It was simple and straight-forward, although sometimes the writer tended to go off tangent in the story by explaining useless things like the Greek philosophy from high school. As I was reading this book, I couldn't help but feel impressed that a man could write "chick lit" with such precision and accuracy. Usually, men don't understand women. But Alberto Ferreras could. Way to go, man!

Q&A with Kathy Cano-Murrillo

2011-03-15T07:54:00.001-07:00

As promised, here is our interview with Latina author, "The Crafty Chica," Kathy Cano-Murrillo. (So sorry for the delay, you guys.)

Q: How does your Latina culture influence your work (writing and art?)

A: It influences everything I do! I’m third generation Mexican-American and have grown up with all the traditions as daily life. I love my culture, I love the history, the beauty, the music, the customs and the pop culture! We are a very diverse people. I grew up in a middle class family and was blessed to have two wonderful l parents, a happy home and good schools. I was able to travel across the world right after high school and learn about other cultures as well. Now when I write my books and make my art, I like my work to reflect that. I want to show “all-American chicas,” who are college educated and making the most of their opportunities, as they have a foot in both worlds. It’s also important to me to represent Latinas in the creative arts industry. Through my web site, I’ve met scores of creative Latinas, who not only work and raise their families, but also find time for themselves to make art and express themselves. It makes them happier and stronger role models.

Q: Please describe your art/writing process.

A: For my books, I always start with a blank art journal. The good kind with heavy art paper sheets. I brainstorm my ideas using colored markers and doodles. I’m a very visual person! Once I get all of that down, I type up a one paragraph summary of what I want the book to be about. I type up character profiles, which I don’t think hard about. I let them flow as I type and that’s how they come to life! Next, I think of their names and then write a paragraph on their story arc. I then piece it all together in one big outline. And then I start writing! I end up varying from the outline, but it still serves as a basic road map.

As far as my art, I go with what kind of mood I’m in. I have an art journal, where I write and draw the ideas that come to me. When I feel like making something new, I’ll open the journal and find an idea that fits my mood. I’ll paint like crazy for a week, and then I’ll switch to sewing. I’m a very project-oriented person. I absolutely MUST finish what I start. I can’t sleep if I leave something unfinished! Even though I can get obsessive about it, it helps me bring an idea to fruition.

Below is video trailer for my newest book.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_EvI3BERQQ&feature=channel_video_title

Books available on Amazon

Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing blog tour

2011-03-08T07:27:00.000-08:00

Today, we feature the newest novel by Kathy Cano-Murillo entitled Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing.

We did have a Q&A all set up for this post, but, unfortunately, our old email account was recently suspended and we, therefore, cannot access any stored information, including the one from Ms. Murillo's publicist, who organized this entire tour.

With all this said, we would like to send our sincere apologies to the author and her publicist.

Below is our posting for the day.

About the book: Scarlet doesn't do things like other people. Unfortunately, this leads to some misunderstandings, like when her manager at the fabric store mistakes her measuring methods for assault. But while she may not be as wealthy as her siblings, or as respected as her grandmothers-strict seamstresses whose criticism left Scarlet permanently pattern-phobic-she will be soon. She's been offered a position with Johnny "Scissors" Tijeras, the hottest young designer in New York. To raise money for her move, Scarlet opens an after-hours sewing school in a local record shop, attracting a surprising mix of students. Future freeform garment makers include a high-strung office manager whose marriage counselor thinks she needs to learn to break some rules, and an elderly seamstress with a secret past. But as friendships grow, the lines between teacher and student blur, proving there is no single pattern for happiness-it is always a custom fit.

Available on Amazon

This book is currently in our TBR list and is waiting for one of our reviewers to rate it.

We are hoping the author will stop by today to answer questions from our readers.

If you would like to contact us, you may reach us at our new email: livinlavidalatina@hotmail.com

Thank you!

Winner of "Colorful Chick Lit" Package

2011-03-05T16:22:00.000-08:00

Through the service of Random.org, a winner has been selected for our "Colorful Chick Lit" Package giveaway.

And the winner is:

Doret or "Happy Nappy Bookseller"

Congrats!

An email has been sent, notifying the winner.

Thanks for playing!

"Colorful Chick Lit" Package Giveaway

2011-02-22T09:37:00.000-08:00

In honor of the "2011 Colorful Chick Lit Challenge" hosted by Reads4Pleasure, we are giving away a "Colorful Chick Lit" Package.

3 books--all written by women of color!

Bollywood Confidential by Sonia Singh

Hook, Line, and Single by Marcia King-Gamble

Hot Tamara by Mary Castillo

To enter:

-Post a comment in this post with your email address before March 5 2011

-Contest is open to U.S. residents only (Not shipping internationally)

-Contest ends on March 5, 2011; A winner will be announced on this site

Book Review: Esperanza, A Latina Story

2011-02-16T17:32:00.000-08:00

Now, we would like to review a book written by one of our members--Esperanza: A Latina Story by Sandra C. Lopez

Fourteen-year old Esperanza Ignacio could only think of a few words to sum up her life: crap, crap, crap! She was born into a poor Latino family living in a small crummy apartment in the barrio side of town, where the graffiti chiseled more the souls and character of the residents than it impacted the exterior looks of the buildings. Her father was a drunken, gambler, and wife-beater who, one cold night, got arrested after a violent intrusion. Her entire circle of relatives consisted of nothing but formers-former drug-addicts, former gangsters and gang-bangers, former alcoholics, former everything. Yep, her life was nothing but a huge load of crap. And she hadn't even started high school yet. After surviving a scorching summer heat, Esperanza enters the unfamiliar world of high-school with a tight knot in her stomach. On the very first day, she is sucked into a blunder of catastrophic events beginning with accidentally running into the world's BIGGEST bully. Now, she has made herself the prime target for a main course. And, to top it all off, she has to see this girl everyday in P.E! P.E.-the one class Esperanza truly despises the most. Could life be any worse for her? Well, her family could take in a relative hopped up on drugs, a probable shooting can take place right in front of her, and Esperanza could also sit and listen to the crazed ranting of her loud psychotic mother. Oh, wait, all that does happen. To make things even easier, her best friend, Carla, won't stop trying to marry her off to her twin brother, Carlos. And she has these two puny siblings constantly vying for her attention. God, it's a wonder she doesn't strap herself in a straight jacket and pretend to be Elvis. Nonetheless, Esperanza attempts to get through it all. She is a smart and ambitious young kid struggling to survive her life while fighting to make her mark on the world. Her story is filled with pain, strength, and too much loud bickering. It carries a voice enriched with barrio slang and sarcastic humor. Esperanza illustrates what persistent Latino youth can achieve when they get back up after a fall and keep on walking straight into college.

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rating:

Review: What can I say? I loved Esperanza—her personality, her voice, her sense of humor, but most of all, her inner strength to become somebody. Like many Latino youths, Esperanza comes from a poverty-stricken home marked by domestic abuse, alcoholism, gangland connections among her relatives, and a saddening absence of hope for the future. When Esperanza enters high school, she faces bullies, the peer pressure to meet low expectations, and the tremendous possibility that she, too, will become just another Latina dropout. Esperanza has no role models and no home support, but she finds strength she did not realize she had and fights against obstacles to fulfill her dreams. You can’t help but root for Esperanza as she struggles to find her place in this world.

Not only does this book have an inspirational message for our Latina sisters, but it is also laugh-out-loud funny! I especially loved the overbearing mother. It totally reminded me of my own.

Filled with unforgettable characters and a voice enriched with a raw, teenage voice. We definitely need more books like this out there!

Interview with Anjanette Delgado

2011-02-12T09:45:00.000-08:00

Anjanette Delgado is the author of The Heartbreak Pill, which won 1st place in the Best Romance category at the Latino International Book Awards.

Welcome!

Can you please tell us a little bit about the kinds of books you write and how your culture affects your craft?

My books are written for modern women and have been called “smart chick lit.”

Please describe the Latina heroine(s) in your book.

They’re always women who set to learn something in order to be happy. This stems from my absolute belief in self-transformation. My heroines believe they can change their life for the price of a used paperback.

Who is your intended audience, if any?

I truly believe that everyone can enjoy my books, and I do have the fan mail to prove it. (You wouldn’t believe the diversity in them.) But, I do feel that they land hardest among women like me: multicultural, modern, and trying to be happy and to make sense of life.

How do you feel your books influence Latinas?

Hopefully, they’ll influence them to learn whatever they need to learn to remove whatever stands in the way of their happiness.

What does being Latina mean to you?

Well, for one thing it means a very different thing from being Hispanic. You see, I can be Hispanic living in Puerto Rico, Colombia, or anyplace else for that matter. It just means I come from a Spanish-speaking country. But being Latina means sharing the immigrant experience as it is lived in the USA. Two completely different things. One is secure in its identity because that identity is held by the context of place; the other has to define and protect that identity, even as it goes through the acculturation process of having chosen to live in this country.

What do you think the future holds for today’s Latina?

Oh, the world is the limit. We have so much to give, to contribute. I believe we can be a force for great good. We can be uniters. We can create multicultural bonds. When I’m hanging out with my Jewish friends, and with my African American friends, or my white friends... I see no difference. I see mothers, women. We are sassy, funny, dramatic, scary when we’re angry. We’re all just women.

What are some of your favorite Latina authors and why?

I like Josefina Lopez because because she’s real. She says whatever needs to be said. I also like
Liz Balmaseda, Fabiola Santiago, Carolina Garcia Aguilera, Julia Amante, and Stephanie Greist.

Do you have a website or a blog?

http://www.anjanettedelgado.com/

Thank you!

Book Review: Hungry Woman in Paris

2011-02-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

Hungry Woman in Paris by Josefina Lopez

A journalist and activist, Canela believes passion is essential to life; but lately passion seems to be in short supply. It has disappeared from her relationship with her fiancé, who is more interested in controlling her than encouraging her. It's absent from her work, where censorship and politics keep important stories from being published. And while her family is full of outspoken individuals, the only one Canela can truly call passionate is her cousin and best friend Luna, who just took her own life.

Canela can't recover from Luna's death. She is haunted by her ghost and feels acute pain for the dreams that went unrealized. Canela breaks off her engagement and uses her now un-necessary honeymoon ticket, to escape to Paris. Impulsively, she sublets a small apartment and enrolls at Le Coq Rouge, Paris's most prestigious culinary institute.

Cooking school is a sensual and spiritual reawakening that brings back Canela's hunger for life. With a series of new friends and lovers, she learns to once again savor the world around her. Finally able to cope with Luna's death, Canela returns home to her family, and to the kind of life she thought she had lost forever.

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rating:

Review:
Let me start off by stating what little I liked about this book. First of all, the main character's name was Canela. What a fun name! Canela, which means "cinnamon" (Brown and sweet). The story started out with Canela at her favorite cousin's funeral. I liked how the whole family function turned into an all-out brawl right in the middle of it. Lopez brought out an authentic Mexican flavor to her charcters in this scene. It was funny and witty.

The story started taking a slow turn when Canela decides to go to Paris because she called off her engagement. At first, her reason for leaving was to use the tickets she bought for her honeymoon; but, then, her decision to stay was a little anti-American with the following quote: "I hate my life. I hate the war. I hate what is happening to the U.S., and I just can't go back." (pg. 25) Okay, take a chill pill, girl! Sometimes this story got way too political for my taste.

And sometimes Canela was just a coward to me. I mean, fleeing the country because you don't want to face your mother with the truth? C'mon! Although we all can understand the desire to run away from work, family, life--the world! But, sooner or later, you're going to have to come back and face what you ran away from.

The imagery of Paris was described beautifully and eloquently. However, this still did not compensate for the writer being too graphic with the sex scenes. I was so grossed out by most of them. I can't even tell you a little bit about it. Yuck! Also, she outlined the cooking so much that I often skipped these parts. I also thought that there were too many characters that you don't really care about. In all honesty, I didn't really care about Canela either.

All in all, this book was all about food and sex--no story whatsoever. It was a grave dissapointment. Lopez should really stick to screenplays.

Book Review: Graffiti Girl

2011-02-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

Graffiti Girl by Kelly Parra

Raised by her single mom (who's always dating the wrong kind of man) in a struggling California neighborhood, Angel Rodriguez is a headstrong, independent young woman who channels her hopes and dreams for the future into her painting. But when her entry for a community mural doesn't rate, she's heartbroken. Even with winning artist Nathan Ramos — a senior track star and Angel's secret crush — taking a sudden interest in Angel and her art, she's angry and hurt. She's determined to find her own place in the art world, her own way.

That's when Miguel Badalin — from the notorious graffiti crew Reyes Del Norte — opens her eyes to an underground world of graf tags and turf wars. She's blown away by this bad boy's fantastic work and finds herself drawn to his dangerous charm. Soon she's running with Miguel's crew, pushing her skills to the limit and beginning to emerge as the artist she always dreamed she could be. But Nathan and Miguel are bitter enemies with a shared past, and choosing between them and their wildly different approaches to life and art means that Angel must decide what matters most before the artist inside of her can truly break free.

Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez, author of Esperanza and Beyond the Gardens

Rating:

Review: What can I say? I loved Angel! She absolutely rocked with her non-glamour, doesn't-give-a-crap attitude. But, like any other teen, she's shy and insecure, especially about her skills as an artist. She never liked to show off her work because she felt it would never compare to the other students, who were far more talented than she could ever come close to. I'm an artist myself, so I know how that feels.

Angel is a character that many Latino youths can relate to. The other characters in this story are so genuine agaisnt the back drop of a barrio neighborhood. I was intrigued by the concept of "graffiti" art as far as the application, the process, and how expressive it can be.

And, like taffy, you will be pulled in opposite directions as Nathan and Miguel battle over Angel's affections. The question was: who was right for her?

Towards the end, Angel must learn there are sacrifices in achieving your dreams and the choices she makes could impact her life forever. A fun YA read full of surprises.

A "Caliente" Valentine

2011-02-01T15:28:00.000-08:00

It is the first day of February, and, in 13 more days, it will be....you guessed it, Valentine's Day

In honor of this upcoming celebration of love, we have posted the following cover.

A hot Latin lover sounds mucho caliente to us.

We hope every girl out there enjoys it.

Book Review: Motorcycle Ride on the Sea of Tranquility

2011-01-27T11:48:00.000-08:00

Motorcycle Ride on the Sea of Tranquility by Patricia Santana

It's April 1969, and fourteen-year-old Yolanda Sahagún can hardly wait to see her favorite brother, Chuy, newly returned from Vietnam. But when he arrives at the Welcome Home party the family has prepared in his honor it's clear that the war has changed him. The transformation of Chuy is only one of the challenges that Yolanda and the rest of her family face. This powerful coming-of-age novel, winner of the 1999 Chicano/Latino Literary Contest, is a touching and funny account of a summer that is still remembered as a crossroads in American life. Yolanda and her brothers and sisters learn how to be men and women and how to be Americans as well as Mexican Americans.

Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez, author of Esperanza and Beyond the Gardens
Rating:

Review: Chuy is back from war, but he is different; and the whole family is wondering why, especially his "favorite" sister, Yolanda. So, right away, we are presented with a mystery. Who is this guy and what happened to him? Then Chuy runs off on his Harley and disappears. It is at this time that Yolanda and the family reminisce about Chuy and how it used to be with their family. And while Chuy is "missing," Yolanda continues to grow into her teen years, oblivious to her own femininity and the male psyche. It's like "The (Latina) Wonder Years," a story of a youth coming of age as world history--war, TV, music, the 60's--happens all around her.

At times, the story went off track when the main character started telling the history of their roots and the "American" dream--all boring, really. And although this book was very well-written for the most part, you did run into some sentences that were quite ambiguous. Don't be fooled by the cover, which looks like something that was crudely spliced together in Photoshop; this book is actually pretty good. The author writes with such poignant sensitivity and beauty. Full of mystery and intriguing wonder.

Latina Book List #1

2011-01-23T11:38:00.001-08:00

For those of you who are starting the new year with a reading challenge, please consider adding Latina books to your list.

Below are just a few of our recommendations:

Becoming Latina in 10 Easy Steps by Lara Rios
In Between Men by Mary Castillo
More than this by Margo Candela
Houston, we have a problema by Gwendolyn Zepeda
Graffiti Girl by Kelly Parra
Lucky Chica by Berta Platas
Operation Famila by Donna Del Oro
Adios to my old life by Caridad Ferrer
Beyond the Gardens by Sandra Lopez
The Tequila Worm by Viola Canales

Of course, there are loads more! (We plan on featuring more book reviews here as the year progresses.)

But this is just to kick things off in the challenge.

Q&A with Misa Ramirez

2011-01-20T15:31:00.000-08:00

Today, we are featuring Misa Ramirez, author of the Lola Cruz mysteries.

Please describe the Latina heroine(s) in your book.

Dolores 'Lola' Cruz is a 29 year old newly licensed Private Investigator in Sacramento, CA. She works for Manny Camacho's PI firm, much to her family's dismay. They would have liked to see her as a teacher, or better yet, married with children. But Lola is a black belt in kung fu, independent, driven, and isn't about to let cultural or familial expectations stop her from living the life she's dreamed about.

Who is your intended audience, if any?

Women of all ages, people who love mysteries, Stephanie Plum readers.

How do you feel your books influence Latinas?

One thing my Latina editor told me was that I'd created a character and series that steered clear of stereotypes. I want Lola to be relatable to women of all cultures, and for people who are not familiar with the Mexican culture to respond to and see themselves in Lola Cruz Mysteries. I want Latinas to see themselves in Lola, and to love her, her choices, her family, and her life.

What does being Latina mean to you?

Well, I am actually not Latina! I like to say I'm 'Latina by marriage' and that Lola is my alter ego, if I were a smart, sexy, Latina PI! My husband is Mexican. We have 5 children. I've been part of his family for so long and I love the culture that when it came to writing a book, I immediately wanted to write someone my children could relate to, someone who balanced their two cultures, and someone fun, smart, sexy, and sassy!

What do you think the future holds for today’s Latina?

Endless possibilities!

What are some of your favorite Latina authors and why?

I enjoy reading Isabel Allende and Julia Alvarez. I also like Caridad Pineiro .

Do you have a website or a blog?

I have several!

http://misaramirez.com/
http://thenakedhero.com/

and http://booksonthehouse.com%20and/and http://booksonthehouse.com/kids

These are sites where books are given away every single week!!

I also have a brand new Lola Christmas story available on Amazon and Smashwords! It's called The Lola Cruz Christmas Story. Hope you will check it out!

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/31517
http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Story-Prequel-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B004E9U72E

Book Review: Good-bye to All That

2011-01-15T10:04:00.000-08:00

Good-bye to All That by Margo Candela

Raquel Azorian has worked her way from temp to executive assistant and is this close to a promotion to junior marketing exec at Belmore Corporation, the media behemoth she’s devoted herself to. She’s learned to play the Hollywood game—navigate office politics, schmooze the right people, avoid the wrong ones, and maintain a sense of decorum even in the craziest of times. All she needs is for her boss to sign her promotion memo. Instead of putting pen to paper, he suffers a very public meltdown that puts not only his professional future but also Raquel’s on the line.

Getting to the next rung on the Belmore ladder will require every ounce of focus, but that’s not going to be easy. Raquel’s mom has decided to leave her husband and move into Raquel’s apartment, and her older brother seems to be sinking deeper and deeper into depression. Raquel has to keep her job, stop her parents from divorcing, and save her brother. In the chaos of juggling so much, she finally reaches a breaking point: there’s just not enough time for everything or for everyone. She’s going to have to choose—success at work or happiness at home. But then a chance encounter at a bookstore café leads Raquel to start planning her own Hollywood ending . . . on her own terms.

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rating:

Review:
Raquel is your hard-working girl climbing her way up the corporate ladder (or trying to, anyway). It's Girl vs. The Hollywood Machine.

This book embodies the classic style of Margo Candela, author of More than this. It has comical sass mixed in with profound philosophy on modern life. Even though this book started off a little slow for me, the story does not disappoint as you press on. The book picks up towards the middle when Raquel's mother suddenly moves in with her after a fight with her dad. Oy, living with your mother again. And, on top of that, her brother's marriage may be in trouble and suddenly she must fix it. Then things at work start heating up for Raquel when she begins a secret affair with a sexy co-worker.

Filled with witty comments and humorous dialogue. A nice, quick read that you can't wait to get through.

Book Review: Operation Familia

2011-01-11T13:50:00.000-08:00

Operation Familia by Donna Del Oro

How does a modern, educated latina, disconnected from her traditional Mexican-American family, discover her true identity and "orgullo" (cultural pride)? Dina Salazar likes to think she has it together. Dodging the bullet of early marriage and motherhood that every other female in her family has succumbed to, she's her own woman. Or is she? Is she free ...or just lost? Adventurous, athletic Dina has a satisfying career and her freedom from emotional entanglements. She has it all. All except the love of her life, Rick Ramos-THE HATED ONE-who ended up marrying another woman nearly six years before. All except the closeness of her blue-collar family, who live in a Latino barrio of Salinas, ninety miles south of Silicon Valley. All except the feeling of belonging to her cultural heritage. She speaks Spanish but who is she really? An American disguised as an Hispanic woman? Or an Hispanic disguised as an American? Is she a mixed mutt with an American mind and a latino heart? In her attempts at educating herself and climbing the socio-economic ladder, has Dolores Salazar lost her latino heart and soul? When Dina learns that her stern, disapproving Mexican-born grandmother has a shameful secret, a son Abuelita Gómez had to abandon in Mexico sixty years before, Dina is reluctant at first to get involved. The uncle she has never known (a drug lord) has died mysteriously-killed, her grandmother believes, by a rival in the Juarez drug cartel. In time the family learns that the rival and suspect is the late drug lord's son-in-law, and Abuelita's grand-daughter, Dina's Mexican cousin, Teresa, has no choice but to flee her ruthless husband. To Dina's dismay, her grandmother urges HER to find out where her grand-daughter and great grandson are seeking refuge in Mexico. Her grandmother tells her that Dina is the only one that can rescue Teresa and her son, for Dina is the smart and brave one of the family-and the only one who speaks Spanish. What's a girl to do when la familia calls?

Reviewed by: Bela M.
Rating:

Review: I had a blast reading "Operation Familia" by Donna Del Oro. It is a story about a young Latina named Dina Salazar--a school teacher. Dina likes to think she has it all together. But to her Mexican family, she is the sassy rebel who refused to succumb to early marriage. Then one day, her grandmother reveals a shocking secret. Apparently, she gave up a son in Mexico, and her granddaughter is now begging for help in escaping the drug cartel. And Dina is the only one who can save her. On top of all that, the love of her life, Rick Ramos, AKA "THE HATED ONE" has come back into her life after cheating on her with an old girlfriend, which resulted in a surprise pregnancy. Now, he is divorced with full custody of his daughter and wants to be part of Dina's life again. But can she trust him again after what he did? Well, so far, he's worming his way into her heart and onto her bed.

A funny romantic comedy with suspense to boot. It is a great book!

Interview with Victor Cass

2011-01-06T11:10:00.000-08:00

We have recently featured a review on Victor Cass' latest novel, Telenovela, which was chosen as one of 2010 Best Reviewed Books. Now he returns to discuss what being Latina means.

1. First of all, how did you come up with this story?

I had two relationships, one after the other, with an
Argentinean-American and a Mexican-American woman, and I was struck by
their cultural differences, even though both were Latina. I also
thought it interesting, as I learned more about Latin American culture,
that there were often times of animosity between Mexicans and Guatemalans,
El Salvadorans and Nicaraguans, and Argentineans and other South
Americans, yet there was much more that they had in common to bring
them together than to keep them apart. Using the idea of a "Telenovela"
as a back story, I thought it would be interesting to create a familiar
landscape with two American women of different Latin backgrounds, bring
them together, and see how their lives would be changed by this new and
exciting friendship, especially in relationship to their own worlds and
often frustrating love lives. I made the fictitious "Telenovela" plot
line of "Sofia de Amor" loosely follow the Argentinean character's
twisted love life.

2. Was the title, Telenovela, something you decided right from the start, or did you consider others?

While Telenovela was the strongest front runner, in that is symbolized
the dramatic romance and story of the book, I also considered the
title, "Junior and Red," the two nicknames of the main characters.

3. How would you describe the blooming friendship between Lorena and Miriya? How does it differ from their other friends? Do you think they really needed each other in some way?

I think the friendship took each of them by surprise, yet the ease with
which they took to each other made it kind of a pleasant surprise. They
were so different from what each was used to, yet, at their cores, so
similar in how they believed in what they did, that there was a natural
admiration for the other, that I think each of them felt. It didn't
hurt that they had both noticed each other first, prior to ever
becoming friends, and were intrigued by each other, simply by their own
style and how they carried themselves.

In terms of how this differed from their other friends, I think Miriya
could, at times, feel disconnected from her circle of friends, because
maybe she felt misunderstood, or she was, deep down, wary of their
competitive, catty natures. I also don't think Miriya felt like she was
like her friends, which is a complex situation for any person to have
to figure out. Lorena, on the other hand, had so few friends, and was
perhaps so selective of who she let into her life, because of her own
family dynamic, relationship insecurities, or whatever.

I think that both Miriya and Lorena did need each other, even if
neither had ever known it, because they both represented a side of the
other that was hidden, repressed, or not allowed to fully bloom.

4. How would you describe Miriya's love for Arturo, and how does it
differ from her affair with Steve?

I think at one time Miriya was probably head over heels in love with
Arturo. I think that Arturo, being strong and Argentinean, reminded her
of her own beloved father. In the end, I think her love for him waned
because he was definitely NOT her father, in terms of strength of
character. By that time, however, I think Miriya slipped into the
situation a lot of women find themselves in, when they've invested a
lot of good years with someone who still hasn't "manned" up and married
them--the women fall into "in it to win it" mode, and getting their man
to change, or realize he wants to be married, etc., becomes more
important than the question, "Is this really the man I want to marry
after all?"

I think that with Steven Meztaz, Miriya got a taste of that youthful,
fresh, idealistic love again, that new couples go through. There was
also a simplistic self-assurance that Steven had--he was who he was
and wasn't trying to be anything else, unlike Arturo, who kept chasing
one big dream to the next.

5. How did Lorena's friendship with Miriya affect her relationship with
Steve, considering they did not know each other very well to begin with?

I think that Steven became a victim of Lorena's own personal morality.
I think that Lorena did have an arcane, yet culturally and religiously
understandable moral code, which in relation to her and Miriya boiled
down to, "you don't date your best friend's ex-boyfriend." Lorena had to
choose, and I feel strongly that, based upon who Lorena was, she could
never have dumped her friend, Miriya, now matter how "new" the
relationship was, for a man (read: relationship), which Lorena felt was
probably a fleeting and unreliable situation to be in. I think Lorena,
in her heart of hearts, realized that she could always have a
relationship, if not with Steven, with someone else later, but that
good friends didn't come along every day.

6. Was the ending hard to come up with? Did you consider alternate
endings?

I think every writer of a romance or "romantic story" wants to let the
girl or the guy win the object of their affection in the end. However,
as my story unfolded, I realized that getting the guy might not be such
a great thing, especially in Arturo's case. This was a story more about
the love two people could have for each other, who were friends, kind
of a deep platonic love, a "bro-mance" but for chicas.

7. Why did you have a real soap opera running in the background of this
story?

I wanted something very cultural to be in the story, that related to
love and romance, and thought of no better representation than the
telenovela format. I also wanted it to be a real "story" as well, so
that hopefully my readers would become nearly as interested in poor
Sofia de Amor, as the story's "real" characters.

8. Did you have to watch a lot of telenovelas as research? If so, which
did you watch?

I watched bits and pieces of some, just to kind of get a "feel" for
their style and pacing, but I can't recall any titles or particular
shows. For a brief period, years ago, I got hooked on "Guiding Light"
believe it or not (even though that's an American soap opera). But
soaps and novelas really aren't my cup of tea.

9. Was writing about Latinas a bit of a challenge with being a male
writer?

I think it was, more for the cultural stuff than anything else. I'm a
good people-watcher, though, and I love women. I think that any male
writer has to have a good sense not only of themselves but of people
and has to have a healthy love and respect of women in order to be able to
write authentic female characters. If you don't "get" women, if you are
unable to have normal conversations with them, listen to them, and
really enjoy their company, their outlook on life, and how they see the
world, then it will be very difficult writing women characters for a
man. That's my opinion.

10. What do you think Latinas can learn from this story and its
characters?

Trust your instincts, both about friends and lovers. Trust in your
moral convictions, even those that were passed down through the prism
of your own Latin culture and religious faith. And definitely do not
underestimate the importance of how your relationship with your father,
good or bad, will impact your life (and get therapy if you need to).
Many of the Latinas I've known either had a non-existent father, or a
father who provided but said little and had little influence (or hands
on impact) on the day-to-day raising of their children. And others have
had the wonderful, strong, loving father who is later a hard act to
follow for would-be suitors in a Latina's life. A Latin woman's
relationship with her family, as well as the family dynamic, will have
the most important impact of any on her entire life.

11. What do you think the future has in store for today's Latina?

Today's Latina, especially in the United States, is far more educated,
intelligent, and empowered than her forebears. I think they are moving
slowly away from the stereotypical model of getting pregnant with their
boyfriends before they're married or have moved out of their parents'
house. We're seeing more Latinas graduating not only from college, but
from grad school as well. I think the biggest challenge for American
Latinas will be in raising sons, who are probably America's most
endangered commodity in "raising" their men to bring themselves up
emotionally, educationally, and financially. Too many Latin men are
falling behind in the progress of Latinos in general, while their women
are advancing. This can only spell serious trouble for the future of
Latino families, marriages, relationships, and the emotional and mental
health of the Latin community as a whole.

Thank you!

Best of 2010

2011-01-02T11:38:00.000-08:00

Hola, amigos!

We hope you all had a great holiday break and are striving for some great changes in the new year. Even though we only started just a few months ago, we have still managed to rake in many followers. And, thanks to the generosity of writers and publishers, we have obtained many books.

So here is our list of best reviewed books of 2010.

Best Reviewed Books of 2010

1. Becoming Americana by Lara Rios
2. Lucky Chica by Berta Platas
3. The Girls from the Revolutionary Cantina by M. Padilla
4. The Heartbreak Pill by Anjanette Delgado
5. Estrella’s Quinceañera by Malin Alegria
6. When the stars go blue by Caridad Ferrer
7. The Three Kings by Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez
8. Cinderella Lopez by Berta Platas
9. The Voting Booth after dark by Vanessa Libertad Garcia
10. Telenovela by Victor Cass

Please be sure to check these great titles at your local book store and stay tuned for more reviews in 2011.

Holiday Break

2010-12-24T13:20:00.000-08:00

Livin' la vida Latina will be on a holiday break from December 24 thru January 2. But have no fear, our reviewers are finishing up their books and will soon have more reviews for you all.

Until then, viva Latina y Feliz Navidad!

Book Review: When the stars go blue

2010-12-21T16:09:00.000-08:00

When the stars go blue by Caridad Ferrer

A dancer driven to succeed.

A musical prodigy attempting to escape his past.

The summer they share.

And the moment it all goes wrong.

Dance is Soledad Reyes’s life. About to graduate from Miami’s Biscayne High School for the Performing Arts, she plans on spending her last summer at home teaching in a dance studio, saving money, and eventually auditioning for dance companies. That is, until fate intervenes in the form of fellow student Jonathan Crandall who has what sounds like an outrageous proposition: Forget teaching. Why not spend the summer performing in the intense environment of the competitive drum and bugle corps? The corps is going to be performing Carmen, and the opportunity to portray the character of the sultry gypsy proves too tempting for Soledad to pass up, as well as the opportunity to spend more time with Jonathan, who intrigues her in a way no boy ever has before.

But in an uncanny echo of the story they perform every evening, an unexpected competitor for Soledad's affections appears: Taz, a member of an all-star Spanish soccer team. One explosive encounter later Soledad finds not only her relationship with Jonathan threatened, but her entire future as a professional dancer.

Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez, author of Esperanza and Beyond the Gardens

Rating:

Review: After reading Adios to my old life, you can bet how much I was looking forward to the next thing from Caridad Ferrer; so you can imagine how I felt when When the stars go blue finally came out.

Soledad is your typical aspirational dancer with an a-typical body--curvaceous and hippy as opposed to flat and stick-like. I've always wanted to know what it was like to lead the dancer's life. Watching movies like Center Stage and Honey helped, but I found them to be a bit too flashy. I liked that this book dealt with the serious, more emotional side. It was theatrical boot camp mixed in with the traveling circus.

Although the story started off kind've slow for me, this book does not dissapoint. The real story doesn't begin until Soledad starts her training on the road after she soon starts dating new boy, Jonathan, who rooked her into this whole thing. At first, I really didn't feel the spark between them, since they've never really talked before; but they end up developing a sweet, summer love between them. You can't help but feel engaged in Soledad's world as she struggles with the awkwardness of being the new kid while trying to start a relationship with a new boy with both his parents right there, especially when the father dissaproves of it all. In fact, Jonathan and Soledad almost have kind've of a Romeo and Juliete thing because of that.

Tensions and jealousy begin to accumulate when Soledad meets Taz "Soccer Boy." Now she's more confused than ever. It made me wonder many things. Will Jonathan and Soledad make it? Will Jonathat defy his father's orders, risking everything he's ever worked for, to be with Soledad? Will Soledad throw away what she has with Jonathan to pursue Taz? This story will have you guessing all the way to the end.

Featuring The Voting Booth After Dark and Q&A with Vanessa Libertad Garcia

2010-12-18T12:14:00.000-08:00

The Voting Booth After Dark: Despicable, Embarrassing, Repulsive by Vanessa Libertad Garcia is a collection of short stories and poems interwoven into a narrative that follows a group of addicted gay & lesbian Latino club kids destroying themselves throughout the course of the 2008 elections. The book focuses on how they affect and are affected by the national politics happening around them.

Reviewed by: Thelma T. Reyna, author of The Heavens Weed for us

Rating:

Review: Gritty and unflinching, the tone of the book is one of desperation and starkness as each character depicted—Marta, a young, disenchanted lesbian; or Diaz Diaz, a gay fashion designer, for example—speaks to us of their heartbreak, alienation, and sometimes of suicidal plans. The personas that Garcia invokes are products of a society that is too fast-paced, too materialistic, and too shallow for twenty-somethings or thirty-somethings trying to find a meaningful niche in life, as they struggle simultaneously to pay bills, be successful in a career, find true love, or simply forge a connection to someone or something outside of themselves that can make their lives fulfilling. Welcome to the underbelly of Los Angeles.

The voices Garcia creates for each of her personas are poignant and heart-wrenching. She describes “sweet-scented one-dimensional images that pop out at you like an early Warhol painting” (in “Longing”). There is little self-pitying though, no sugarcoating of the raw emotions that spill from her characters, many of whom are gay addicts who have seemingly accepted their sex orientations but nevertheless struggle to navigate life.

Matter-of-fact language, which contributes to the non-judgmental tone of the book and its authenticity, is often balanced against poetic descriptions or observations that catch the reader by surprise. For example: “Parasites of the night, dressed to the 9[‘s]/living off the small pints of love/stored in our words” (from “The Dead End Days”). Or: “The sun shuts its lids and the moon clocks in.” “Sadness already home invites guilt in for coffee.” (both from “Lament”).

Yet, amidst the jadedness and sadness are subtle beams of hope for these young lives. In “Compassion” toward the end of the book, Garcia writes: “We are curious children/ with adult powers/that clumsily break the china.” She ends her book thus: “The crumbling world/ is always pieced together by time/and space....Justice eventually finds its place in line.”

Garcia gives us a glimpse of lives in torment but also reminds us that lives are not frozen in time but are forever evolving, and we must stay open to the possibilities of change.

* * * * *
This review first appeared on my blog, American Latina/o Writers Today, at
http://www.latinowriterstoday.blogspot.com/ on March 30, 2010.

Q&A with the author:

Can you please tell us a little bit about the kinds of books and films you do?

I believe my mission statement sums it up best: I'm a writer and filmmaker that
assembles works of literature and film (both documentary and fiction) that reflect the varied
experiences of underrepresented, a-typical, and eccentric human communities. My books and
films candidly depict subcultural issues through distinctive styles that challenge conventional
forms of storytelling. All the while remembering that sincere communication and human relate-ability are the Vital Spirit of my projects. In short, I strive to produce intimate books and films about uncommon lives for the collective heart.

How do you feel your work influence Latinas?

I feel my work influences Latinas because it represents them in society. My books and films feature the nuances, trials & tribulations that are unique to their contemporary experiences and puts them on display for a wide cross-cultural audience. I write lead characters that are Cuban, Cuban-American, Mexican, Mexican-American, Chilean, Argentinian, etc, who are immersed in the salad-bowl and melting-pot countries of the globe. We're living in a time of vast cultural migration where people of varying ethnicities survive and thrive together on the same land, often times fusing their spirits and traditions into subcultures. These subcultural groups, e.g. Latin(a)-American lesbians, tend to be dismissed, underrepresented, or erroneously depicted by the mainstream, especially in the United States. I strive to give the complexities of our multi-layered Latina lives an honest impacting voice through my books and films. I hope Latinas are influenced by my art work to believe their lives are important to understand and their stories worth chronicling, and therefore continue to do just that -- in their own specialized ways.

What does being Latina mean to you?

Being Latina is an irrepressible part of my core self. My perception of life has been significantly molded by my Cuban-American experience. My perspectives regarding all matters -- especially philosophical, political, and artistic -- have been greatly influenced by my immigrant Cuban family. Even my physicality -- the way I express passionate opinions with my hands in debates or shamelessly shake my hips to a soul-clenching song. My verbal expressions -- the rapid-fire way I speak in both Spanish and English. The specific brand of Cuban-American Spanglish I grew up speaking. Beyond my home, I was raised in primarily Mexican-American neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles such as South Gate and Downey, which also left its own special brand of Latina-ness on my psyche, heart, and Spanglish. I consider "being Latina" an amazing, poignant, and intrinsic part of me.

What do you think the future holds for today’s Latina?

I think the future holds a wide array of limitless, thrilling opportunities for today's Latina. I truly believe that the world, thanks in great part to the internet, is currently in a no-holds-barred state. We brazen, hard-working, and inventive Latinas can do anything -- both professionally and personally -- we set our spirits to. El futuro es nuestro. Si se puede!

Do you have a website or a blog?

If so, please list the URL:

www.vanessalibertadgarcia.com

Book Review: The Three Kings

2010-12-14T13:31:00.000-08:00

Since the holidays are upon us, we thought we'd review our first Christmas novel--The Three Kings: A Christmas Dating Story--by best-selling Latina author, Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez.

Who’s bearing gifts this Christmas? Three hot, single guys!
Christy de la Cruz has it all: a great career as an interior designer for the stylish homes of New Mexico, marriage to a tall and handsome man, and a great family—especially her cousin Maggie. But as the holidays approach, she’s down to two out of three—that handsome husband has walked out the door. Christy is so not up for dating . . . until Maggie takes Christy on as the ultimate romantic project. Just like the wise men in the nativity story, Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar arrive bearing gifts and displaying their best stuff. One’s a pretty boy, one’s a rugged cowboy, and one’s an animal lover. Which one will win Christy’s heart?

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rating:

Review: This is the first novel I have read from Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez (I know, silly me, right?) But I'm sure glad I started off with this one. Christy is someone most of us could relate to--independent, self reliant, a non-traditional Mexican. She was a sarcastic, cynical woman boasting with money-making confidence, except when it came to men and relationships, which she was totally clueless on (that's why she got the book on dating rules.)

It starts off with Christy complaining about her gay ex-husband and how the demise of their marriage came about; so, right off the bat, she's bitter and sassy; she tells it like it is and does not omit (all funny, BTW.) Then she starts thinking that she would like to meet a man this Christmas; in fact, she actually wishes for it.....to the Virgin Mary. I found it kind've hard to sympathize to this because I didn't feel that her wish was genuine. In fact, I found it to be superficial. I mean, she didn't just wish for one, she had to wish for 2 or 3. Who wishes for that? And to the Virgin Mary? Why couldn't she wish that to Santa Claus? At least you wouldn't have to worry about lightning bolts coming at ya.

But then, by the power of Christmas, her wish comes true. The three guys appear at a cousin's party. And then the game begins.

I found this all to be quite fascinating. Christy was all mortified at the prospect of dating these three guys. But it was exactly what she asked for. "Be careful what you wish for; it may actually come true."

It was actually fun seeing Christy on each date with these guys. Some were down-right romantic in that sweep-you-off-your-feet kind of way, while others were just plain weird and creepy that it actually makes you want to resign from the whole dating scene. This contest not only becomes a race to the finish, but it also turns into a wager for the rest of the family. Which one is better suited for Christy? Which one do you think she will sleep with first?

Filled with hilarious quips and laugh-out-loud dialogue. A quick read for any time of the year (not just XMAS.) This story will leave you guessing all the way to end until we get the answer to the burning question: who will win....her heart?

Winner of Living the vida Lola

2010-12-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

The winner for Living the vida Lola by Misa Ramirez is:

Michele

Congratulations and enjoy your prize!

Stay tuned for the next giveaway, folks!

Double Feature: The Girls from the Revolutionary Cantina and Q&A with the author

2010-12-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

Today, we have another double feature. We have a review for The Girls from the Revolutionary Cantina and an interview with the author, M. Padilla.

Inspired by their good-natured rivalry, career-oriented best friends Julia Juarez and Ime Benevides have never let anything come between them. Then enters Julia's new coworker, Ilario, who pulls both women's heartstrings, disrupts their friendship, and brings Julia's career to the brink of disaster.

Looking for support, Julia turns to her other friends: Concepción, a party-obsessed dance instructor; Nina, a timid but shrewd seamstress who's not too taken with her fiancé; and Marta, owner of the Revolutionary Cantina, who is preoccupied with the details of a Hollywood murder case. When they involve Julia in a risky scheme, she must choose between her loyalty to her friends and a chance to live the life she's worked so hard to achieve.

Boasting irreverent, edgy humor and a clear sense of Southern Californian culture, this hilarious, insightful debut novel by award-winning author M. Padilla brilliantly captures the comforts and dangers of friendship.

Reviewed by: Elsie Contreras-Gonzalez
Rating:

Review: When first starting to read The Girls at the Revolutionary Cantina, I expected a common cliché of women enjoying the camaraderie of friendship over drinks. However, once the plot thickened, I became attached to the characters and their different personalities. The Girls at the Revolutionary Cantina filled me with laughter, delight, and surprise.

The novel revolves around Julia Juarez, a sales representative for a security firm, who faces an unruly challenge when her best friend Ime begins dating her boss, Ilario. Once this happened, I anticipated a "love-triangle" romance, but the author, Padilla, certainly changed that expectation. Tension builds within the friendship as the story unfolds. Julia learns just what type of best friend Ime turns out to be.

Julia begins to admit her own feelings for Ilario while spending time with the other girls at the Revolutionary Cantina. The other three ladies - Marta, the bar owner; Concepcion, a fun-loving dance instructor; and Nina, the quiet seamstress. Each woman has her distinctive features which adds depth, humor, and insight about living as a Latina in the San Fernando Valley. Their lives are engaging, and their involvement in the murder scandal with Latino actor, Diego Ramirez, adds a bit of suspense to the novel.

The novel is a true test of friendship for each character because they all face challenges regarding choices. Themes of ambition, loyalty, friendship, and culture frequently surface throughout this book. My expectations were met by a twist of irony. I truly expected a "friends forever, no matter what" type of ending, but this debut novel features a much different conclusion. It is remarkable because Julia ultimately discovers her independence.

Honestly, I felt sad and thankful once I finished the book, because I will miss the characters, but glad I got to "know" them.

And now a Q&A with M. Padilla.

Can you please tell us a little bit about the kinds of books you write and how your culture affects your craft?

My writing ranges from serious drama to brisk comedy, but all my work has at its center a Latina or Latino protagonist. My parents, who came from Mexico to make a life in the United States in the '50s, were committed to assimilating as Americans quickly, and so many of the things that I found interesting about my family stemmed from their experience as immigrants.

Some of my fondest memories as a kid growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area come from when my Spanish-speaking relatives from Los Angeles and Mexico would come to visit. The women in particular were incredibly funny. They brought a kind of energy to our household that was so different from what I was used to. I was a sponge for their stories and jokes, and I loved the way they relentlessly teased each other. Their voices were a big inspiration for The Girls from the Revolutionary Cantina.

Please describe the Latina heroine(s) in your book.

The Girls from the Revolutionary Cantina is the story of a group of Mexican-American women living in California's San Fernando Valley. It's about what happens when things like career aspirations and romantic relationships start to take a toll on the friendships you thought was going to last a lifetime. Julia, my heroine, is a hardworking Chicana struggling to achieve security in what she believes to be a very insecure world. After several misfires, her career is finally starting to take off. However, her friends from childhood, for the first time, begin to become hindrances to her success, and she must begin to reevaluate her relationships with them. She also must find a new way to feel secure in the world rather than relying on these same friends; she must start to learn to stand on her own two feet.

Who is your intended audience, if any?

When I began writing The Girls from the Revolutionary Cantina when I didn't have a particular audience in mind. I set out to tell a story about a Chicana not unlike the women in my own life - career-oriented, fun-loving and passionate about living. My hope is that women who read Cantina will see some of their own struggle in the character of Julia.

Since publication, the book has been marketed largely to women, but many men have said they enjoyed the book as well. Several people have told me that they lost sleep because they could not put the book down. I hope my novel could be enjoyed by anyone who likes a fast-paced, funny story.

How do you feel your books influence Latinas?

The strongest reactions to any of my work have come from women who see themselves in the pages of the things I write. I think it's important to see your culture reflected in the pages of literature and in the media. It's a powerful reminder of the things we share within a culture and of the things we share that are universal across cultures.

What do you think the future holds for today’s Latina?

I hope that, like the characters in my novel, Latinas today are coming to feel greater freedom in how they define themselves. When I was growing up, the roles for Latinas that I saw tended to be wife and mother and caretaker. Latina women have more and more options available to them and can more fluidly than ever move between roles at different times of their lives. Being Latina or Latino itself is becoming a more and more fluid thing. How assimilated to be or not to be, how traditional or not traditional - these are things one can choose, and I think technology is playing a role in opening up all those possibilities to women everywhere and bringing them together so they can draw strength from their numbers.

What are some of your favorite Latina authors and why?

There are so many, but among the writers who influenced me early on were Sandra Cisneros and Julia Alvarez, and more recently Alisa Valdez Rodriguez and Mary Castillo.

Do you have a website or a blog?

Yes, my website is http://www.mikempadilla.com/and my book page on Facebook is: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/M-Padilla/294677020744

I invite readers to "like" my fan book page so they can keep track of reviews and upcoming books signing of The Girls from the Revolutionary Cantina.

Holiday Giveaway: Living the vida Lola

2010-12-03T09:19:00.000-08:00

To celebrate this holiday season, we are giving away Living the vida Lola by Misa Ramirez.

About the book: Dolores "Lola" Cruz loves shoes, kung fu, and her job as an underling at Camacho and Associates, a private investigation firm in Sacramento. After a year and a half on the job, her sexy and mysterious boss, Manny Camacho, finally assigns Lola her first big case--a woman's disappearance.

If Lola gets it right, it could mean a big bump up the career ladder. But this is no grocery store stakeout. The woman turns up dead and the same thing could hapen to Lola if she doesn't watch her back. Complicating matters are the reappearance of Jack Callaghan, the gorgeous guy who first inspired Lola to surveil in high school, and her loving but meddling family that she still lives with. Can Lola solve the murder, reconnect with her long-time crush, and help her cousin's quinceañera go off without a hitch?

Misa Ramirez's debut novel is a delicious mix of mystery, romance, and all-out-fun. Filled with sizzling scenes and side-splitting humor, Living the Vida Lola is a thrilling ride.

The winner will be chosen on a point scale that you must earn by doing any of the following:

+1 - Be a follower of Livin la vida Latina
+1 - For every comment you post on this site
+2 - For every other site you mention Livin la vida Latina
(Note: must include links in the email)

All entries must be emailed to livinlavidalatina@muchomail.com

Type the words, WIN LOLA, in the subject line.

ONLY U.S. RESIDENTS ARE ELIGIBLE (No International Address, please)

A winner will be announced on Dec 12 2010

Buena Suerte!

Book Review: Lucky Chica

2010-11-29T16:07:00.000-08:00

Well, we hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and got stuffed to the gills with turkey and pie! But now it's time to get back to work.

To kick things off again, we have another review by YA author, Sandra Lopez.

Lucky Chica by Berta Platas

Rosie Caballero hates her nagging boss, her "ditch-me" dating history, her second-hand wardrobe and third-rate job--nothing is easy. She can’t even afford to pay for her dog Tootie's food.

And then, Rosie wins the largest lottery jackpot ever: 600 million. Rosie can hardly believe her new life: she spends thousands on diamonds, makeup, clothes, and promises. Rosie parties like a celebrity—and even meets the hottest actor on the planet, Brad Merritt, who sweeps her off her feet and seems too good to be true. But he’s not the only one in her dizzying world—former boyfriends, larcenous advisors, paparazzi all swarm around her, vying for her attention (and money).

In between shopping sprees and photo shoots, Rosie has to find out who she trusts—and what money can (and just can’t) buy.

Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez
Rating:

Review: What would you do if you won $600 million dollars? Well, most of us would do what we've always wanted to do: quit our jobs after finally telling off the boss, move out of that crummy, rat hole of an apartment, and finally live it up like a spoiled princess where you'll want to hire someone to scratch your nose. That's exactly what the lead heroine in this story does.

After learning that she won the lottery, the very first thing Rosie Caballero does is quit her lousy job after, of course, telling off her boss. Oh, god, that must've felt so good. After that, she and her family get caught in a whirl wind of diamonds, paparazzi, and Hollywood crushes. Rosie eventually comes to wonder if being rich isn't all it's cracked up to be.

Platas has done it again in this heart-warming, hilarious novel. As I read it, I actually pictured it as a movie starring the great and funny Sandra Bullock as Rosie. The way I saw it:

The scene opens with Bullock getting out of bed, tired and groggy at first until she realizes that she's late for work yet again.
She throws together some aspect of clothing and shimmies down the fire escape in order to avoid her landlord because she's late for the rent again.
She races to the bus stop barely making it to see that the bus is going off without her (just like that scene in Speed)
The bus is gone. Bullock stomps in frustration then runs and hurdles though rush-hour traffic to get to work
She arrives, aching and breathless, wondering if she made it on time; then, her boss enters, a sour look on his face, and asks to see Rosie in his office. Not a good sign.

The whole book played exactly like a movie to me. And who would star as the gorgeous, hunky Brad Merrit? How about gorgeous, hunky Jensen Ackles from Supernatural? (dog pant and howl)

Excellent read!

Holiday Break

2010-11-24T13:52:00.000-08:00

Livin' la vida Latina will be taking a little break for the turkey holiday. We will be posting more book reviews starting on Monday, November 29.

If you would like to join our team and become an official reviewer for Livin' la vida Latina, please send an email to livinlavidalatina@muchomail.com

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Author Interview with Margo Candela

2010-11-16T11:13:00.000-08:00

Today, Latina author, Margo Candela, has come to tell us about her writing.

Can you please tell us a little bit about the kinds of books you write and how your culture affects your craft?

I write women’s fiction, which and I’m hoping to branch out into different genres including writing for young adults and screenplays. I’ve had four novels published so far and each has featured a Latina or Latino as a main character, but I like to explore the fictional lives of other types of people, also. I write a lot about family and identity--two subjects I find complex and interesting--and my books tend to be more on the funny side.

Authors bring a lot to the table when they’re writing a novel, but I’m a big advocate of separating my fiction from my reality. Even though my upbringing has influenced my work, I know there’s a difference between my private life and what I end up writing about. I’m not my characters and my characters aren’t me, but I can relate to them and hope readers can too.

Please describe the Latina heroine(s) in your book.

In my first novel, Underneath It All (Kensington Jan. ’07), Jacqs is divorced and has a job that’s supposedly very glamorous, but is just a mini-version of the relationship she has with her estranged family. In Life Over Easy (Kensington, Oct. ’07), Natalya’s goal is to seek perfection in her professional and personal life even though it’s ruining her chances at happiness in both areas. In More Than This (Touchstone, Aug. ’08), I have two main characters, Evelyn and Alexander, who come from completely different backgrounds but both are hiding from who they really are. And in my latest novel, Good-bye To All That (Touchstone, July ’10), Raquel is trying to keep her family and work life together, but is failing at both while learning some hard truths about herself and others.

There are key traits all my characters share--a good sense of humor, the ability to be honest with themselves and they make lots of mistakes. I like to write about essentially good, but flawed people because those are the types I find most interesting in fiction and real life.

Who is your intended audience, if any?

I write with a heavy dose humor for women anywhere from their late teens and up. Whether they call my books chick lit, mainstream fiction or women’s fiction, my readers are willing to keep an open mind about what constitutes a “happy ending.” My books don’t end with a marriage proposal, dramatic weight loss or the main character moving into a corner office. I’m also very conscious that my reader wants a good story that’s funny and entertaining while being insightful and smart. I do deal with heavy subjects (divorce, job loss), but I’m not one to let my characters be melodramatic about it…unless it can be played for a laugh.

How do you feel your books influence Latinas?

While my main characters are Latinas, I don’t write exclusively for a Latina audience. I explore universal themes in my novels (family, identity, work) with the intention of giving my readers a satisfying experience. My only overt attempt at trying to make a point is that my main characters have been college graduates. That’s as much shepherding as I think I’ll ever do since my main goal is to write an entertaining story, not a preachy one.

What does being Latina mean to you?

My background and the life I’ve lived so far have given me a unique viewpoint that comes across in my writing. Depending on the reader, this may or may not read as Latina. I really can’t worry about that too much because it would be a pointless distraction. I know who I am and I know where I came from. I’d rather think of myself as a woman first and then round it out with other relevant labels. If I had to name five things that make me me, they’d be: writer, mother, Democrat, Latina and failed circus acrobat. Those are in no particular order as some days one role is more important than the others.

What do you think the future holds for today’s Latina?

The future is what you decide to make it, no matter who you are. The one thing I do know about the future is that it’s up to you (and me) to do something to make sure it goes in a positive direction. There’s a growing awareness of the importance of community support either on a more personal level from friends or families or through professional network associations. If we build on harnessing our combined strength and diversity, there’s no limit on what can be achieved both individually and as a whole.

What are some of your favorite Latina authors and why?

I’ve been really lucky in that I’ve gotten to know a handful of authors who happen to be Latinas and are good people on top of that. I always look forward to seeing and hearing from Julia Amante, Mary Castillo, Reyna Grande, Jamie Wood Martinez, Sandra Lopez and Sarah Rafael García to name a few. I’ve had so much fun doing panels with these ladies and I always know that I can reach out to them for some support when I need it.

Do you have a website or a blog? If so, please list the URL.

I try to blog at least once a week. I write about whatever I find interesting or amusing and it’s my space to just let me be me which is why it’s all over the place. I’m also active on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads. My website, http://www.margocandela.com/, has links as well as a contact page and information about my books.

Book Review: Becoming Americana

2010-11-11T08:53:00.000-08:00

The author of Becoming Latina in 10 Easy Steps presents her latest funny and heartwarming novel.

Ever since an article about Lupe Perez ran in the UCLA paper, she's become the poster child for the American Dream: East L.A. bad girl who slashed cop makes good! She goes to school full-time, works in the food court, and volunteers at a center for at-risk teens. Against all odds, Lupe has turned her life around. The thing is, she never asked for all this attention. Now, her professor wants her to write a gigantic thesis about what Americanization means to Mexican immigrants-and she's not even sure yet what it means to her.

YA author, Sandra Lopez gives us her review.
Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez

Rating:

Review: I loved it! Like my novel, Beyond the Gardens, Becoming Americana is a true rags-to-riches story of a young Latina trying to make her mark in the world. Lupe Perez is a student at UCLA and frequent volunteer at The Vibe, a youth center for at-risk teens. Instant celebrity status follows her when an article is written about her in the campus paper. Now, her professor wants her to write a thesis about Americanization, which we get a glimpse of at the beginning of each chapter.

Things get a little dicey when she is forced to leave home because of her trouble-making brother and move in with Nash, the director of The Vibe and the guy she's had a crush on for years. More confusion is added when the reporter Will (the one who wrote the article) starts taking an interest in Lupe.

While Lupe and Will begin a dating interlude, she and Nash exchange flirty pleasantries and sensual closeness. By the end, it all comes down to her choices. Will or Nash? This job or finishing school? You can't help but wonder how the end will turn out.

Personally, I would've chosen Nash over Will anytime. Nash was older, smarter, and more mature when Will just seemed like your typical college boy who was only into getting sex. The fact that Nash kept resisting Lupe's advances only made him that much hotter to me. It was the whole hard-to-get thing.

The ending was kind of sad for me, even though it was great that Lupe finally got her act together.

Ultimately, this story is all about the emotional ups and downs of a young girl straight out of the barrio. It pulls you into the gritty, dark turmoil of her hopes and fears, and it leaves you reeling from this courageous story long after it's finished. A fantastic read!

In fact, if you liked this story, you may also want to check out Beyond the Gardens.

Double Feature: Review and Interview

2010-11-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

We have something a little different this week. Latina author, Donna Del Oro, has donated some of her time to do a book review AND an interview for us.

She has recently read The Heartbreak Pill by Anjanette Delgado.

Is it really necessary to suffer for love? What if an easy-to-swallow pill could turn love off and on? You wouldn't desire what isn't good for you. You wouldn't cry for what cannot be. You'd just live. You'd be happy.
Erika Luna is a thirty-something scientist living and working in Miami. When her husband of seven years -- the very successful, very smart, very good-looking founding partner of one of Miami's top public relations firms -- falls in lust with another woman, their marriage spirals toward divorce and Erika's practical nature leads her down a strange path.

What is a scientist to do when slapped with a pain so deep it interferes with her breathing? Develop a cure, of course. Erika moves into a new apartment and turns it into her own personal laboratory. She frantically begins mixing potions and uses herself as a guinea pig as she desperately tries to create a pill that will rid the world of heartbreak forever. As she navigates the murky waters of the recently divorced, Erika also struggles to find her own sense of self and the answer to whether love, and its pain, is worth the risk.

Reviewed by: Donna Del Oro

Rating:

Review: THE HEARTBREAK PILL is a romantic comedy that won First Place in the Latino Books into Movies Awards contest; my novel, OPERATION FAMILIA, won Second Place in the same category, so I was curious to read the novel that won over mine. I wasn’t disappointed! From page one, my attention was riveted to Erika Luna’s story and I read the book in two days.
Erika Luna, a research chemist for Nuevo Med, is a Cuban-American wife who’s dumped callously by her handsome husband of seven years. In her distinctive voice, she tells of her slow, painful journey from the fog of denial into the light of forgiveness and indifference—in Erika’s words, from “please come back” to “to hell with him”, and finally to “I could care less”—and a kind of peace within herself. Along the way to self-knowledge and acceptance, she researches the part of the brain that controls a human’s emotions and discovers that the chemical reactions in the caudate nucleus center of the brain cause the euphoria of love, its addictive qualities, and the mental and physical pain of love’s loss. With her quick scientific mind, Erika experiments with a drug that can reduce her own pain and fill the “big black hole” in her heart/brain. Only then, she decides, can she truly heal and be happy again. Of course, she’s thinking like a scientist. What she soon learns is that other factors come into play when trying to close the wound of heartbreak.
Along the way, she meets two men who show her different aspects of her self; one is a painter who happens to speak my favorite line of dialogue in the book: “What is art, poetry and music but the transformation of an artist’s pain into a present for humanity?”
In this delightful, humorous but poignant story, Anjanette Delgado shows us the journey everyone must take to recover from love’s loss. And I couldn’t help but think of my second novel, HASTA LA VISTA, BABY, another story of heartbreak and healing. The same catalyst but two totally different stories. Heartbreak is an all too familiar story but with a zillion different journeys.

And now an interview with Donna.

Can you please tell us a little bit about the kinds of books you write and how your culture affects your craft?

My first two published books are romantic comedies with Latina heroines. OPERATION FAMILIA just won 2nd Place in the Romantic Comedy category for the Latino Books into Movies Award, sponsored by the Latino Book Festival. It's about a schoolteacher who's called home for an emergency; her grandmother wants her to rescue her Mexican cousins from a vicious drug cartel. I love to take serious issues and treat them in a lighthearted, satirical way. My second book, HASTA LA VISTA, BABY, is about a bitter divorce and how the worst day in Sonya's life turns out to be the best thing that could have happened. Although the title's not cast in stone, my third book is called BORN TO SING: THE LOVE STORY OF A LATINA OPERA SINGER. I had a wonderful time researching operas and operettas and the lives of divas. But it's basically a love story that spans 25 years.

How do you feel your books influence Latinas?

I'm not sure. The Latinas that I know who've read them have told me they've laughed and cried, all the while relating to the heroines completely. I guess that's quite a compliment!

What does being Latina mean to you?

Good question! I think being half Latina, half Anglita (my father was a blond, blue-eyed Texan) has enabled me to experience and enjoy both my Latino culture and family and my Anglo culture and family. I never had any problems relating to either one. My Latino family always called me "Blondie" because I took after my father; they teased me in a good-natured, affectionate way so I didn't mind. One of my Texas relatives called us "prune pickers"--but hey, he was a redneck and he also meant it affectionately. I think when cultures mix, you tend to get that kind of teasing. You learn to develop a thick hide and let stupid comments roll off you. Being bi cultural, I enjoyed especially the music and food from both cultures. I just wish I'd grown up bilingual. I envy those who are. It's a wonderful thing, to be a true bilingual.

What are some of your favorite Latina authors and why?

I like Anjanette Delgado and Margo Candela. They both write insightful, humorous stories and I love their blend of romance and comedy.

Thank you, Donna!

Book Review: Telenovela

2010-11-03T07:22:00.001-07:00

Today, we have reviewed, "Telenovela" by Victor Cass.

Life can be one big soap opera when culture clashes with romance and infidelity

When legal secretary Lorena Sandoval chooses to be single and celibate while waiting for the right man, she bumps into Miriya, a determined girl on the go, whose womanizing hunk of a boyfriend, Arturo, is cheating on her. Lorena learns of this affair while she and Miriya became fast friends. What Lorena doesn't know is that Miriya has been having a secret fling of her own with a mysterious lover. Lorena later thinks she's met the right man in art store manager Steven Meztaz. But the real trouble begins when she introduces Steven to Miriya! It's girl's night out, friendship drama, and sexy romps in the land of the telenovela!

Reviewed by: Bela M.

Rating:

Review: You can't get anymore Latina than a telenovela, right? This book, like a telenovela, is divided into different parts. Part I tells the background of Miriya from adjusting to U.S. life and trying to lose her accent as a child to losing her father as a grown woman. In Part II, we learn about Lorena's family history and origins starting with her grandmother's marriage and conception of her children. All the suspicion, lies, and infidelity doesn't begin until Lorena notices Miriya in a local coffee shop one day. The scenes are just as sizzly and steamy in this book as they are on a TV screen. And while this story takes place, a real telenovela that every character in the book just can't live without it seems, is being watched somewhere in the background. It's a soap opera within a soap opera.

The beautiful descriptions and vivid details helped bring the story to life. The hilarious dialogue brought me back to the days when all the women in my family craved the "soap opera" life through tons and tons of juicy gossip. It has all the drama of a telenovela--sadness, jealousy, suspicion, and betrayal. At times, it was a tad predictable, and some of the sex scenes were a little too graphic for my taste (I guess that's why I don't read erotica novels.) I also thought there were too many characters. C'mon, I really didn't need to know everyone's life story. Also, there was too much cussing. I understand that cussing is a part of the everyday language. I don't have virgin ears, ya know? And, let's face it, sometimes you do need a little cussing in a novel. But there is such a thing as too much cussing. I'd say I ran into f#!* and sh#! about 20-30 times in one page. The author used these words so much that they practically lost their meaning. Enough already, I get it!

All in all, I get what the author was trying to do in this book, and I commend him for that. The story is easy to get through and leaves you content, even though I wasn't too happy with Lorena's ending. That was kind've a bummer.

Winner: MEXICAN ENOUGH

2010-10-31T09:01:00.001-07:00

The winner of the MEXICAN ENOUGH give-away is.......

Elsie C.

An email has been sent to our winner, who has 48 hours to claim their prize.

Thank you and stay tuned for the next give-away!

Book Review: Estrella's Quinceañera

2010-10-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

Today, we have one of today's Latina YA authors submitting a book review to us.

Author Sandra C. Lopez has reviewed Estrella's Quinceañera by Malin Alegria.

Estrella Alvarez is turning fifteen, and she's not happy about it. For as long as she can remember, her mother has been planning an elaborate quinceañera, complete with a mariachi band, cheesy decorations, and a hideous dress. Estrella is so over it. She'd much rather have an understated dinner party at a posh restaurant downtown that way, she can invite her two best friends from private school, who have no idea Estrella lives in the barrio. Even though Estrella tries to keep her home life a secret from her school friends, things get even more complicated when she falls for Speedy, a cholo whom her new friends and her parents would definitely disapprove of.

Caught between her family's wishes and the allure of her sophisticated friends, Estrella is forced to make some tough choices. This funny, touching book follows one girl's struggle to figure out who she really wants to be.

Reviewed by: Sandra Lopez, Author of Esperanza: A Latina Story and Beyond the Gardens

Rating:

Review: What do most of us do when the topic of quinceañeras come up? We sigh, we roll our eyes, we cringe so hard that we shrivel up inside like a burnt out match. The feeling's mutual in just about everyone. That was exactly how Estrella Alvarez felt in this story.

Even though I have never had a quince myself (thank god,) this story gave me warm nostalgia as I recalled my own years of growing up in a barrio. I remembered the "cholo losers" and the busy-body neighbors; the buttinski mother and the crazy relatives, everthing. You can't help but empathize with Estrella when it comes to how her family views her as the last gleaming hope for a good education, or how she feels like an alien in the world of her rich, prep-school friends. Don't we all feel that way at some point?

I loved Estrella's surly and sarcastic tone as she described every grueling (and often, embarrassing) detail of the party planning. I also liked how Speedy wasn't your typical "cholo" but actually a nice guy (so few of them left in the barrio.) I did think Estrella needed to relax and slow down on growing up. She should've enjoyed hanging out with Speedy as a friend/person instead of concentrating so hard on getting her first kiss from him.

One unique thing about this book was that each chapter had a definition of barrio slang that you couldn't help but smile at. This was a relatable story of finding one's self while coming of age in a dark, scary world. Great job, Malin!

Book Review: Cinderella Lopez

2010-10-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

This week, we have reviewed Cinderella Lopez by Berta Platas

Overworked, underappreciated 24-year-old Cynthia Lopez meets her Prince Charming at a Starbucks, unaware that he is Eric Sandoval, 29-year-old CEO of AmerCon—the company that just acquired RTV, the television station where Cyn and her glam-fabulous VJ stepsisters work. Keeping their professional lives secret, Cyn and Eric begin a joyful courtship that comes to an abrupt halt at the RTV Music Awards, when dating and workplace politics, miscommunication and the jealous, meddling steps conspire to tear them apart. Platas imbues her story with Latin spice and a dance hall pace, and populates her New York with vibrant, virtuous heroes and deliciously wicked villains. The result is another finely tuned if formulaic brain vacation for working chicas of all stripes.

Reviewed by: Bela M.
Rating:

Review: Cinderella Lopez is a heartwarming story of love at first sight.
I liked that this story incorporated some of the details from the Disney classic. I liked that Platas resurrected a classic fairy tale story and added her own Spanish flavor and comedy spice. My favorite scene was when Cyn first takes a walk with Eric to the park. They are sitting on the ground, and Cyn tags Eric and he begins chasing her all over the place. They were just like two kids playing--fun and innocent. And I think that's an intregal part of love--to have that connection and to never stop having fun.
The only thing that was missing was the glass slipper scene. I mean, there was the handsome prince, Eric, the evil stepsisters, and the fairy godmother, who was disguised as two gay men. But where was the glass slipper? That's my favorite part in Cinderella (the movie.) But, overall, it was good.

Website: Berta Platas

The magical Latina

2010-10-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

Being Latina is not all beauty, fun, and intelligence. It can also be magical.

YA author Jamie Martinez Woods speaks to us about the magic of being Latina.

Q: Can you please tell us a little bit about the kinds of books you write?

A: I have eight published books (WOW!) Five of my books focus on earth spirituality, goddess traditions and living in harmony with the heartbeat of the land and all life. These books explore folk wisdom through herbs, cooking, ancient magic, symbols and lore. My other three book explore the Latino culture through the etymology of names, influential wordsmiths and teen fiction.

Q: Please describe the Latina heroine(s) in your book.

A: In my young adult novel, Rogelia's House of Magic, I like to tease and say that I split myself into four so that I could present four perspectives of the Latina lifestyle. There are three teen characters: Xochitl, a recent Mexican immigrant, is smart, determined and the hermit or loner. Colombian American Fern is the creative, impulsive, confident wild child. Marina is the Mexican American princess (8th generation Californio) who is quite sensitive/empathic though she lacks true self confidence or self esteem. Rogelia is their teacher: patient, wise, headstrong, tough and very caring.

Q: Who is your intended audience, if any?

A: My audience changes for each book. But the theme that runs through all my books, whether its the Hispanic Baby Name Book or The Teen Spell Book, is that everyone on this planet has a special gift, which could range from being a good listener to playing the guitar to being a social worker. Our job is to find it, polish it and let it shine in the world. We are not to judge it or allow others to dim our light, but instead revel in our talents and share them with all we contact.

Q: How do you feel your books influence Latinas?

A: My books, particularly the A-Z Latino Writers & Journalists book tells the biographical stories of 150 writers, editors and journalists who have changed the world because they spoke up and shared their tales. The stories represent the diversity of Latino Americans and the tenacity to not only survive but thrive despite dictatorships, suppression, prejudice and more. The Wicca Cookbook, inspired by Like Water for Chocolate, demonstrates that inspiration can come from anywhere and it doesn't have to be limited to any one form of expression and can even break misconceptions using an old tried and true method: cooking with love. The Faerie's Guide to Green Magick From the Garden, my latest book, reminds us to get back to the garden and talk to the plants like abuelita did.

Q: What does being Latina mean to you?

A: Being Latina means I live my life with my heart on my shoulder and I'm proud of the fact that I can be vulnerable enough to show what matters most to me and strong enough to back it up and see my dreams through to manifestation. Latina means family. I love my family, even when they drive me crazy, because I know they always have my back and vice verse. Mostly being Latina means I live, move and love ferociously with a thirst to experience as much as I can, until my last breath.

Q: We see from your website that your books incorporate magical elements. How does that affect today's Latina?

A: There is a strong folk wisdom in the Latina culture that we often ignore or disregard as base or not sophisticated. Sometimes we call it magical realism, sometimes its referred to as curandernismo. But regardless, Latinas have a deep connection to the earth and the supernatural. The physical and the metaphysical - through our use of symbolism, oral traditions and stories, and passion this magic comes alive and reminds us all of the power we have to create a world of our choosing. Or at the very least, find the blessing, humor or lesson (dicho) in almost any situation. We are resilient, but the magic helps us feel connected.

For more information about Jamie and her books, go to www.jamiewood.com

CURRENT GIVEAWAY: Mexican Enough

2010-10-16T14:50:00.000-07:00

To kick things off, we are giving away "Mexican Enough" by Stephanie Elizondo Griest.

This giveaway will end on Oct. 31 2010

About the book:
Stephanie Griest, whose mother is a third-generation Mexican-American, made a conscious choice to be white like her dad one day in elementary school and, initially, finds her Hispanic identity when a guidance counselor advises that given her SAT scores, otherwise closed doors would swing open (she graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Texas in 1997). The realization that nearly every accolade I have received in life... has been at least partially due to [this] genetic link inspires her journey to Mexico to learn Spanish and to gain a deeper understanding of [her] cultural heritage. Roughly from January to June 2005, she lives in Querétaro (north of Mexico City), coincidentally with a bunch of gay men. Aside from learning about the gay scene, the art scene and Mexico's unique wrestlers, the timing of her trip places her there when the gay activist Octavio Acuña is murdered. In July, she goes to Chiapas (Mexico's southernmost state), Zapatista territory, and devotes the second half of her book largely to documenting a burgeoning social movement that shook parts of the nation to the core. Patches are interesting, but Griest is not compelling or profound about the harassment and violence suffered by homosexuals, for instance, nor seriously affecting about her personal dilemma, being biracial.

The winner will be chosen on a point scale that you must earn by doing any of the following:

+1 - Be a follower of Livin la vida Latina
+1 - For every comment you post on this site
+2 - For every other site you mention Livin la vida Latina
(Note: must include links in the email)

All entries must be emailed to livinlavidalatina@muchomail.com

Type the words, WIN MEXICAN ENOUGH, in the subject line.

ONLY U.S. RESIDENTS ARE ELIGIBLE
A winner will be announced on Oct. 31 2010

Buena Suerte!