The winner of The Bolero of Andi Rowe by Toni Plummer is......
Sandra L.
Congratulations!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Interview with Toni Plummer
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
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!
Friday, August 5, 2011
Free Read: The Maid's Daughter
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!
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!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Interview with Mayra Calvani
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/
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/
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Review: Becoming Latina in 10 Easy Steps
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.
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.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Review: Hasta La Vista, Baby
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
"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 itReviewed 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.
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.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Interview with Teresa Dovalpage
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/
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/
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