Tazas y Portadas Book Tag

Hacía un ratico que no escribía en español aunque este post no será muy largo. Es para compartir mi booktag original en Booktube: El Tazas y Portadas Book Tag.

Primero, ¿qué es BookTube? BookTube es una subcomunidad en YouTube en donde amantes de los libros de alrededor del mundo hablan sobre libros de todo tipo manera. Lo que les gusta, lo que no les gusta, libros que están por salir y entre los tipos de videos que se hacen, están los book tags. Este tipo de video incluye una serie de pregunta y la idea es que hagas un video en tu canal de YouTube, en tu página de Facebook, Instagram o donde sea y compartas y compares contestaciones. Es algo bien divertido ya que puedes comparar gustos con gente y conoces MUCHOS amantes de los libros de esa manera y de alrededor del mundo. Yo he hecho este y otros tipos de videos hace años aunque nunca había hecho un book tag en español.

Anyways, abajo te incluyo las 8 preguntas del tag para que contestes como gustes y conectes con más personas. Yo escogí hacerlo de Tazas y Portadas porque tengo mis libros en esa librería y les tengo mucho aprecio y respeto como humanos y profesionales. Ahora si hay otra librería independiente que le tienes amor, en confianza compártelo con nosotros. Espero que disfrutes y hasta la próxima, un abrazo.

JD


Tazas y Portadas Book Tag


1. Sabor Local: ¿Qué autores locales has descubierto gracias a Tazas y Portadas?

2. De puya a bibí: ¿Cómo tomas tu café y qué personaje de algún libro eres fanático que le encanta el café?

3. Waffles: ¿Qué libros de autores boricuas has leído en otro idioma que no sea español?

4. Suspenders: Los que trabajan en Tazas usan unos tirantes amarillos y son un fashion statement de lo más chévere. ¿Qué autor o autora boricua tiene un sentido de moda interesante?

5. Affogato: Cuál es una obra que hayas leído en el último año que tenga sabores intensos y contrastes interesantes entre sus páginas.

6. Menú variado: Si fueses a recomendar 4 libros en español de diferentes géneros a lo típico, ¿cuáles recomendarías?

7. Somos todos latinos: ¿libros de autores que no sean de PR que estarás leyendo este año?

8. Para llevar: Libros de autores boricuas que estarás leyendo durante el año

Espero que te motives para hacer un video en YouTube, Facebook o Instagram o compartas tus contestaciones en tu blog. :) Un abrazo

JD


ALSO, if you speak English and would like the prompts, here they are translated:


ENGLISH

1. Local Flavor: Which local authors, (local to you) have you discovered thanks to your favorite local bookstore?

2. From pitch black to barely coffee: How do you take your coffee and what is your favorite character form a book, film, video game, or TV series who loves coffee?

3. Waffles: What books from local authors have you read in another language?

4. Suspenders: People who work at the Tazas y Portadas bookshop in Puerto Rico wear yellow suspenders which are a fashion statement I dig. What author has a unique sense of fashion you find interesting?

5. Affogato: What is a book you read during the last year that had intense flavors and interesting contrasts within its pages?

6. Varied menu: If you were to recommend 4 books from either indie authors or that are not discussed to no end on Booktube, which would you recommend?

7. We are all Latinos…actually we’re all human: Although this tag was made in Spanish I love exploring books from people around the world. What books by people outside the UK, Canada, and the US will you be reading this year?

8. To-go: Local authors to you that you’ll be reading during the year

Have a good one and remember to support local businesses and til next time...

Peace, love, and maki rolls

JD

The Ongoing Wave of American Racial Violence

Every so often, I find myself calling up friends to see if they’re OK. Sometimes it’s because of a winter storm, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods. Sometimes it’s because I see a spike in COVID cases in a general area. And unfortunately, sometimes it’s because they’re either Black, Latino, Middle-Eastern, or Asian. 

During the previous post, I spoke about the latest mass shootings in Boulder and Atlanta, and for good reason. One of the cases is still potentially a hate crime and still under investigation. Reading a bit about the guy’s history, I see enough things to at least not think it’s a repeat of the murder of Ahmaud Arbery. In that case, two individuals targeted Arbery, pursued him, confronted him while armed, and eventually shot him. In last week’s case, if you read the headline, it seems extremely plausible that it was a targeted crime, but there’s a chance that it wasn’t focused on race, even though statistically speaking, it is very possible. 

 

All of this is very different to the countless other cases of violence against Asians and Asian Americans and the surge in incidents since the pandemic begun. Terms like Kung-Flu and China virus are benign to a certain type of person that fails to see the danger and damage done with these and many other terms. Some people have even said things on the lines of celebrating Kung-Flu because it’s hilarious. I’m not saying that I don’t see the humor, I’m saying that using that term in every day vernacular is asking to target people of Asian descent and I really don’t think that’s a stretch with what people capture on film. 

 

The U.S. has a storied history of violence and within its abundance of abuse, there’s a wealth of racial violence and racial tension. The first problem with that statement is the flat out refusal of the problem and saying that things are blown out of proportion. Yet statistics say otherwise, as does behavior, as do headlines, as do people complaining that their free speech is being infringed upon, even if it is hate speech. People would have you believe that white settlers came and conquered peacefully when the reality is that Native Americans across North, Central, and South America were basically exterminated numbering in the millions by the English and Spanish settlers, representing the single largest genocide in recorded history.

 

Slavery is also well documented and to see recently that some people think it’s a shame it was abolished, as well as lamenting women’s ability to vote shows that there is definitely a dangerous thought tendency in recent times. It's not the norm, it's not the majority, but it is there, and denying it is as dangerous as encouraging it. Maybe this has always been a sentiment, but for people to outwardly and comfortably make an argument against voting rights for women and minorities in the 21^st century shows why there has been a rise in violence against Asian people, not to mention other minorities. 

 

Has there been a rise in violence towards Latinos and Black people as well? Of course. Middle Eastern people and people who are Jewish and Muslim? Them too. The phrase, “Go back to where you came from” is unfortunately very common and has always been very common in this country. What’s saddest is when a white person tells this to a Native American, and do so un-ironically. The problem is when you have people playing both sides of the narrative at different times to cater to what serves their interests best, depending on what they want to project or achieve. Case in point, people calling for an end of violence against Asians, while also having quotes that could be tied to anti-Asian sentiments because it caters to their base, i.e. referring to COVID-19 as the Asian virus to offer a common and easily verifiable example.

 

Unfortunately, if anti-Asian sentiments cater to any sort of audience, then logic dictates that certain parts of the population are anti-Asian. In fact, if you look at most minorities, there are countless events documenting discrimination towards people of other races, religions, gender, and color. Black people face a lot of this and one of the favorite counter points from certain sectors is to talk about Black-on-Black crime to sway the conversation elsewhere, preferably far away from the point. This can be argued for or against depending what sources you wish to quote. But that’s another topic and I only bring it up for one reason, no one ever talks about Asian-on-Asian crime and my experience with Asian communities is of a lot of solidarity. Do all Asian countries get along? Not really, but this is a complicated concept in and of itself. 

 

Let me explain from my perspective. As a Latino, I can understand some of what Asians might experience, specifically the blurred lines of countries of precedence. Thanks to Bad Bunny, J-Lo, Benicio del Toro, Ricky Martin, and Hurricane María, people are more aware of where Puerto Rico is located. For reference, it is the smallest of the Greater Antilles in the Caribbean. The official languages of Puerto Rico are English and Spanish and politically speaking, it is a confusing mess that most people don’t understand, but that’s beside the point. What is the point is that it is an Island in the Caribbean and people who come from Puerto Rico identify as either Hispanic or Latino. Before these high profile people and events, when I would say I was from Puerto Rico, I would often get questions like: how long does it take to drive from Puerto Rico here, where in Mexico is that, where in Central America is that, or where in South America is that? Fortunately, people knew that by being Puerto Rican I was Latino, but beyond that, there wasn’t a lot of knowledge regarding where Puerto Rico was, not to mention what it was. 

 

When you’re Asian and you say you’re from Laos, Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal, and other countries, you might get asked where in China that is. If you say you’re from Cambodia, some people might think you’re from an African country, even if it's nowhere near the African Continent. The only distinction that I think is common is that for the most part, people at least know Japan and China are different countries located in different places. This could be in part due to World War 2 or maybe the prevalence of cuisines, where Chinese cuisine is very different from sushi. This means that like Latinos, Asians are lumped into the same demographic and aren’t differentiated, even if culture, customs, cuisine, religions, and history show drastic disparities. What I mean by this is that using terms like China virus and kung-flu are an attack on all Asian people. 

 

In recent months and particularly weeks there has been a rise in attacks against Asian people. I’d like to say it culminated with last week’s murder spree, but that would mean that it would be a peak, and that the end was in fact near. Unfortunately, I don’t see this stopping, because although we are not seeing cases of police brutality against Asians, we are seeing attacks on them. Also, just because we don’t hear about police brutality against Asians doesn’t mean it’s not happening. Abuse against this demographic has long been overlooked and swept under the rug and it wasn’t until George Takei’s Broadway show Allegiance, that many people (myself included) were made aware of Japanese internment camps and how prevalent anti-Japanese and in general anti-Asian sentiments were and continue to be. Which begs the question, why isn’t this more top of mind? This can be due to representation (or lack thereof) and the fact that it doesn’t get the ratings other headlines get. That doesn’t change that it is a reality people are facing.

 

Last week, a young man went on a killing spree. There is a possibility that it was a hate crime. This is still under investigation.

However, beyond that case, there are several other instances where Asian people have been targeted and attacked. This is not speculation. This is fact. Cases where there is no gray area and it was a blatant aggression against a person of Asian descent for being of Asian descent, and unfortunately on more than one occasion against elderly people. These were not accidents and they sure as hell are not isolated cases. What we do to recognize there is a problem and that it’s our duty to protect our fellow human will determine how we respond to yet another crisis. But for that, we need to recognize that there is a problem…and there lies our first obstacle, because few deterrents are more effective than denial. 

Times of Voluntary Blindness

It almost seems impossible to check the news and not read about some new tragedy, abuse of power, or disaster. As we continue to try to wrap our head around what life is for each of us during a pandemic, it should come as no surprise that tensions run high and worrying things keep happening. Things that people turn a blind eye to, justify, or blatantly deny. But the more things happen, the clearer it becomes that race, racism, prejudice, and violence are here to stay.

 

Last week, a white American murdered 8 people, 6 who were Asian women in 3 locations around Atlanta. This week a Syrian American murdered 10 people in a supermarket in Boulder. 

I had to rewrite those first two sentences a couple of times to be as objective as possible.

 There are stark similarities and differences between the cases and some people will see parallels while others see opposites. The reality is that some things coincide, others do not, and there are several topics to discuss in each, but like many things in life, things get muddled.

 

The similarities: 

• Both suspects are 21. 
• Both are male. 
• Both had access to guns. 
• Both seem to be troubled and have a history of behavioral problems. 

In the case of the Boulder suspect, Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa seems to have a history of paranoia, violent outbursts, and although shocked, the initial reaction doesn’t seem one of surprise from anyone who knew him. His temper has been on record for several things that have happened before. He went into the store with a modified weapon and started shooting. In the case of Robert Aaron Long, a pattern of problematic behavior was also evident, with reports indicating he had been treated for sexual addiction, but that he had also had a falling out in his home, from where he was kicked out the evening prior to the shootings. He then proceeded to go to three locations with several miles in between them and murdered 8 people. 

 

The differences: 

• In the Boulder case, it was a matter of who was in the vicinity would suffer the suspect’s wrath. 
• In the Atlanta case, three spas were possibly targeted, and most victims fell under one demographic, Asian females. 

 

Both of these individuals were troubled. Both had access to guns. One possibly targeted people. The other seemed to just go on a shooting spree. Unfortunately, we are living times that are as racially tense as anything most of us have ever lived. Narratives shall be spun on motive and method and people will once again offer thoughts and prayers. 

Will any legislation be passed to regulate weapons? 

Not likely, if we look at this country’s track record. 

Will mental health be given higher priority, especially during a time of such distress as what we’re all living through? 

Highly unlike as well. The opposite seems to be the case, seeing certain cuts in coverage of mental health services. 

Will the race card be played? Of course, and so will religion. 

Here’s the thing, people will scream that Aliwi was Muslim. I mean, scream it. But how many people will point to Long being Christian or Baptist to be more specific? How many people will turn a blind eye to that or brush it off, because of course in that case, it is of no consequence. 

Think about this, both suspects are 21. That means that for 9/11 both of them were 1-year-old. I don’t know what, if anything, Aliwi faced while growing up, but I do have Muslim friends who have had to endure a lot of prejudice, targeting, attacks, and harassment. In the case of Long, he grew up Christian, often carried a Bible and somehow fell into porn addiction. From seeing the mug shots of both, they land into versions of stereotypes we’ve grown too accustomed to…both situations caused the unnecessary loss of life and while investigators try to piece things together, one is a mass shooting, while the other is possibly a hate crime, though can also just be a case of another avoidable tragedy that was slowly but surely pushed past the edge. How some people can focus on one religion and deny another, focus on one race and turn a blind eye to another is still something I have a hard time coming to terms with, even if I see it very frequently. But those are the times we’re living, muddled and complicated.

 

As for the events in Atlanta, was it a hate crime? Was it an extension of what’s been gaining momentum since the pandemic begun? Or was it just a coincidence…Although only time will tell, the timing is what brings this problem to the forefront and something to discuss in another blog post. For now, let us hope that focus is put on the things we can in fact remedy, before we add another tragedy to an already depressing list. 

Creative Connections: Vartra

It had been a while since I did a Creative Connection and wanted to do something a little bit different so started with Heart of Autumn and now I have the pleasure to do my first band interview on For Writing Out Loud. As a frequent contributor to Go Indie Now, I do my best to shine a light on independent musicians and bands who could use a little more exposure and whose music I think is perfect for everything from exercising to writing. I also LOVE exploring music from around the world and sharing that wealth and recently I came across Vartra, a Serbian band that explores world fusion, dark folk, and extremely ethereal music that to me is ideal music to write or for a film score. Founded in 2017 by Siniša Gavrić and sisters Ivana and Aleksandra Stošić, Vartra takes musical inspiration from Slavic and Vlachian folk themes and Native American drumming. It’s different, it’s out there, it’s downright magical quite often, and I’m pleased to have them over for a chat.

 

1. Zdravo, from the other side of the world! So nice to have you on the blog. Can you tell the readers a bit more about Vartra, the meaning of the band’s name, how the project came together and what the first years of the band has been like? 

 

Zdravo! Thank you for inviting us. As you mentioned in the introduction, we are heavily inspired by the southern Slavic relics present in the oral tradition of the Balkan region. Even though the Slavic influence is most notable in our lyrics and style of vocals, our musical inspiration is drawn from a far broader pool. We are combining different indigenous musical practices from various regions (such as shamanic drumming, didgeridoo, middle-eastern instruments etc.) as well as the influences of musical subcultures we all grew up with (80’s and 90’s ambient, metal, post punk, gothic etc.). The name Vartra comes from the Sanskrit word for protection, defense, warding off – chosen to complement the ritual healing and protection spells from the Balkan region that inspired our early works. The band was founded through a friendly artistic collaboration of Siniša Gavrić and the sisters Ivana and Aleksandra Stošić. In the first year of existence, the founding trio was mostly focused on composing and recording the music that is now our first album “Luna Noua”. During this time, we also produced and recorded a few music videos for the songs with the help of the performers from Ivana’s dance studio “Twisted Dolls”. As the album slowly came together, there was a need to share this music with the world and other musicians were recruited to the band to bring the instrumental variety of this music to life on stage. The current lineup includes Stevan Momčilović (didgeridoo, rattles), Andrej Bunjac (djembe, other percussion), Ana Katić (violin, backing vocals), Julius Velker (drums, sound engineer).

 

2. Where did Siniša connect with the Stošić sisters?

 

After a decade of living in North America, Siniša returned to Serbia in 2016. He was friends with Ivana since 2010 and upon his return they started to live together as roommates. Being a frame-drum and rattle craftsman, Siniša incorporated handmade instruments into his music compositions and included Ivana in the singing/song writing process. Sometime in 2017, Ivana’s pole art troop decided to develop a performance describing a Vlach ritual from Eastern Serbia “Dubočke Kraljice”. The idea was to compose and use original music reminiscent of the Vlach rituals but with a strong rhythm suitable for dance. That was when Ivana’s sister Aleksandra joined them bringing her methodical approach to the table. In four months, the three of them worked to compose 60 minutes of music for the performance. The completion of this project marked the beginning of their creative teamwork and future collaboration. After the festival, they started composing new songs, eventually recruiting new members and kicking off a successful series of live shows in the years that followed. 

 

3. When I first heard Luna Nouà, I was reminded a bit of Heilung from Germany although a bit less freaky, a bit more mystical, and even more accessible (to me at least). I think it’s deep and rich music that definitely paints a picture. If there were an art exhibit inspired by Vartra, what are some art pieces you would like to see in the exhibit? 

 

That is quite a compliment. Heilung is amazing! As to the art exhibit, that is an interesting and tough question. We would definitely like to see photos depicting old traditions like for example the work of Evo Danchev (we really admire his work) or works of Damselfrau. Definitely photos depicting traditional festivals (example the carnival of Vevcani in North Macedonia, Busójárás in Hungary). If the more classical art work or concrete art pieces are in question, maybe Albrecht Durer’s The four horsemen, Viktor Vasnetsov’s Sirin and Alkonost. A few more could be Nymphs Dancing to Pan’s Fluteby Joseph Tomanek, Dancing Fairies by Johan August Malmström, and all such magical, pagan and simply natural (as in mountain landscapes) paintings would fit very well. 

  

4. The cover work for the album is quite stunning. Who did the artwork and what was the inspiration behind that visual and the album itself? 

 

Thank you. Our art performer Anđela Vujić designed the album cover. It features the beautiful Luna moth, that represents intuition. The first album has a lot of influences from the cultural heritage of the Vlach ethnic minority in Eastern Serbia. The song Flori is inspired by the Vlachian ritual singing on the morning of the holiday Cveti. The holiday Cveti traditionally celebrates the beginning of the spring. The song Primovara (Spring) depicts the dawn of the holiday Cveti before the ritual performance is about to take place. The lyrics of the song Luna Nuoă are part of the Vlach oral lore as well, as one of the incantations for health, sung to the new moon. Other songs include fragments of Vlach oral lore (Roša and Jo Čero), or of Serbian incantations (Mrza, Razija). Žal (Mojot Dom) is inspired by transcendental experiences and written by Ivana Stošić (Macedonian language).

 

5. Checking my blog stats, I don’t have ­­­­­­­many­ people who are from your neck of the woods. How would you describe Serbia to someone who isn’t familiar with the country?

 

It is a beautiful country. If you love hiking or just being in nature you should definitely check out some of our many mountains. There are many well preserved medieval monasteries and fortresses open for tourists. Due to the centuries long Ottoman Empire occupation of the Balkans, our cultural heritage is a mix of Slavic and Oriental, which you can hear in the music, see in traditional dresses and architecture, taste in the food. You can also visit the prehistoric sites on our territory reaching all the way back to the Neolith era (Vinca’s relics and settlements, Lepenski Vir). The 20^th century left Serbia with a lot of traces from the socialism era (Yugoslavia) – just by walking through the streets of any city in Serbia you cannot miss these. Serbian people are generally recognized as friendly hosts, so welcome!

 

6. I read that the lyrics are inspired by Vlachian incantations and performed in (Wallachian) language, Serbian, and Macedonian. Most people won’t be familiar with these languages, though music often taps into something more primal that connects us. Ideally, what would you want your music to evoke in listeners around the world? 

 

We believe that the perception is quite individual. What we would like to evoke are cathartic experiences as per individual needs and without the given context (meaning of the lyrics for example). One of newer to date yet unpublished songs, Jerovine, is sung in a crafted language for this very reason. On the other hand, we decided to base our songs on the incantations (spells) from this region, because they are an important relic of our culture and history and unfortunately close to be forgotten. This is our way of giving them a chance to survive.

 

7. What are some of the most peculiar places where you have fans?

  

Thanks to our social media – Twitter, Facebook, Bandcamp, Youtube and Siniša’s online drum shop on Etsy we have found fans all around the world spanning multiple continents. Besides the Balkans, we came in touch with fans from both North and South America, Russia, North African countries etc. In the current day and age, it is difficult to reach audiences without a serious marketing budget but we are happy that no one reached by our music was left indifferent by it and that the base of people enjoying our works grows steadily every day.

 

8. A director of a video game or movie contacts the band’s representatives…they need a score for a movie. What type of movie or game does the band envision their work adding to the overall experience to create something truly special? 

 

Given the variety and emotional intensity of Vartra’s music it could be a fit for many things. Obviously it fits perfectly with the dark medieval fantasy genre. Our music has a strong rhythmic and vocal components and it fits well with narrative scenes of mystery, tension and even with medieval combat choreography. Some of our fans likened our music to that from “Heroes of Might and Magic” or “The Witcher” and there is never a shortage of historical and dark fantasy on the market. Titles like “Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice” or “Horizon: Zero Dawn” could be further enriched by the atmosphere of some of Vartra’s tracks. Other genres where we could contribute would include psycho thriller, utopian/post-apocalyptic fiction, historical and epic drama, anthropological and spiritual topics. Some examples might be movies with similar topics/atmosphere such as Mid Sommar (Ari Aster) and The Lighthouse (Robert Eggers) for example. Essentially Vartra would be a great match with any work of visual art that could benefit from raw intense emotion transmitted through drumming and ethnic vocals.

 

9. You describe your shows as a cathartic experience, almost a healing ceremony. Dark but in a way where the darkness is drawn away from the spectator. Can you tell us more about that and what the intention behind the music is like?

 

Repetitive drumming, chanting and dancing were the core elements in rituals since the beginning of civilization when it came to ceremonial/healing practices. Although one might perceive our music as “dark” listening it for the first time, we use the same approach by incorporating the primal, organic sound with the mantric drumming and through the repetitive, atmospheric sound and simplicity of harmony - we believe we part with the darkness. Similar to shamanic healing, where the shaman leads an individual to face and recognize their traumas and guides them to overcome and heal, each individual spectator can experience this process for themselves by surrendering themselves to the sound and atmosphere around.

 

10. How many instruments are there in the album? I ask because beyond some more common instruments, the band performs on handmade drums and rattles crafted by Siniša. Also, how long does it take to make those instruments and where did he learn how to do this?

 

A lot. Percussions make the majority of our sound. They range from handmade frame drums and rattles, sticks, darbuka, djembe, rainstick to bells, cymbals etc. As for the melodic instruments, we use flute, didgeridoo, violin, keyboard, saz, electric guitar and the most perfect instrument of them all – the human voice. Siniša learned how to make frame drums in 2006 while he was in North America, following the traditional drum making from First Nation Tribes such as the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh etc. The whole drum making process takes a couple days to complete. After coming back to his motherland, Siniša developed and perfected his own style in frame drum making that is recognized by many as stunning craftsmanship infused with great energy. 

  

11. Imagine that there is a spiritual retreat that wants the band to perform live, but beyond that, they want to throw the band a feast. What would be the food and drink for the festival? 

 

As with our entire mantra, Vartra cherishes everything coming from local traditions of the regions we visit. We are not picky eaters, but we love to eat a lot and if we get to have a personalized feast – put together anything that would be picked by the locals as something “you must try”. J 

Food is an important part of any country’s cultural heritage and any food or beverage that’s traditional and local is welcome for the tasting. We are still talking about the beautiful feast at the Javorwood festival in Bosnia and Herzegowina, with the traditional food and beverage served outdoors in the mountains. 

 

12. And all that is left is to roll the red carpet. Where can people connect with Vartra, the music, and what are the best ways to support the band beyond just streaming the album? 

 

We’re out there, everywhere. Check our Spotify, Bandcamp and Youtube for music, our Official website, Instagram and Facebook for announcements, pictures etc. Also, check out our Etsy stores, there you can buy Siniša’s shaman drums and rattles and Ivana’s tribal fashion pieces. The best way to support us is by spreading the word!

 

Official Website

Youtube

Bandcamp

Spotify

Facebook

Instagram

 

Vartra Etsy Stores:

www.etsy.com/shop/VartraDrums | www.etsy.com/shop/VartraTribe

 

 * * * *

 

And there you have it, though I already loved the music, it's been an absolute treat to connect with Vartra and get to know a bit more about them, their mantra, and to find out about local traditions and artists. In addition, they are people after my heart with a shared love for exploring local food and drink. Stay tuned to Go Indie Now where I'll be reviewing their album Luna Noua and keep an eye out for upcoming releases. This is a band to keep your eye on as well as delighting your ears with some mystical melodies. Thanks again for connecting creatively, and til next we meet through words...

Peace, love, and maki rolls

Creative Connections: Amy Dionne AKA Heart of Autumn

Life never ceases to amaze in regards to the amazing people we meet and the ones that become our friends. I’ve known Amy Dionne for years and beyond the great human she is, I’ve always been impressed with her creative talents, especially when it comes to knitting, quilting, embroidering, and all things handcraft related. Since these times are definitely intense AND challenging, I’m a big supporter of anything that can help people to process all they’re living and experiencing, and I recently learned about her new initiative, The Anxiety and Mood Quilt – a year long process (https://heartofautumn.com/the-anxiety-and-mood-quilt-a-year-long-process/). To tell us more about this initiative and no doubt clarify that the title is a work in progress, here’s miss Dionne.  

1. Welcome, welcome to the blog and so lovely to have you here, my dear friend. How’s it going and before we dive into deep pools of randomness, what can you tell us about your initiative?

I’ve been fascinated by the modern quilt movement, and most recently with quilters creating ‘temperature quilts’ - tracking temperature over the period of a year and interpreting that in a quilt form. I watched a webinar and knew that I wanted to do something along those lines, something that would completely engage me over a year. It was my husband that suggested exploring the mental health aspect and tracking anxiety patterns over a year. As soon as he said it, that idea clicked.

2. What a curious term-modern quilt movement. Super interesting about tracking temperature and I think what you suggest is tracking emotional temperatures, if you will. So how can people join in with you and what can they expect from the process?

On my blog is a page dedicated to the quilt, with the story behind it and clarity about how mental health and creativity are part of the driving force behind the project. I’ll be posting updates regularly and pictures of each month’s progress as I go.

3. You’ve also done several other handcrafts and have even sold more than a couple of things via Etsy, am I right? If so, how was that experience and how would you describe your artistic approach?

I’ll be completely honest, although I enjoy having people admire and purchase my work, I’d consider my Etsy shop (and the craft shows I did in person) basically duds. I couldn’t dedicate the time and energy needed to produce the amount of product that would have been necessary for success. I also had no time for creative play since every item I did create needed to be sale worthy. I didn’t experiment with my craft, nor was I able to allow room for growth. As the shop became a continuing drain on my energy, I decided to shut it down.

4. Sometimes shutting something down is good for us and that's something people need to come to terms with a little more. As for it being a "dud", maybe it didn't get the sales some other shops did, sure. That doesn't mean it was a dud because on a couple of occasions I saw pieces I thought were fantastic. Still, I think we can safely say you're not a one-trick pony since you also ride horses, write, and are handy with archery among other things? How do all your interests feed into your art and creative process?

There’s always a whimsical or fantastical aspect to my creations. I connect with nature deeply and  those images show up in my quilts. Life is lyrical and I try to bring that to life with my art.

 

5. You were actually the reason I tried mead! If you made a Heart of Autumn mead, what would it taste like?

Oh, what a great question. My tastes now run more to a dry mead, but it would definitely have tones of apple and oak.

6. Beyond the quilting, what other projects are underway and what is the importance of having more than one outlet?

I have a couple of embroidery projects that are stashed near my recliner to pull out and work on while watching TV. It brings me closer to my family history since most of the women embroidered. I have a quilt project coming up to take muslin squares of the state birds that my great aunts, etc., embroidered and make them into a quilt.

I also have stories in progress (primarily a post apocalyptic one, a paranormal romance, and a fantasy), along with writing poetry and articles for a local magazine, and articles for the Maine statewide quilt guild.

I think it is important to have more than one outlet creatively because each project feeds the next. I also find the projects, and life, intertwine with one another for renewal of the soul and heart.

7. You are actually the duchess of your own estate in Ireland, am I right? Can you tell us about this and if you had 5 laws to start off the town, what would they be?

It’s actually Scotland, but yes, I am officially Lady Dionne. It was a gift from my husband - he purchased the land for me and along with that came the title. We won’t mention that the town would have to be miniature to fit in the one square meter of land, but it counts in my book!

I’m not big on laws, per se, but my two biggest directives would be - respect for the land and all her creatures, and contribution to the community.

8. Hey, land is land and you have your own land lol. And to obeying those directives in full, then. Next slice of randomness: How would you describe your relationship with nature and how does it bring you peace and influence you?

Being pagan, nature is a huge part of my life. I believe the earth, its elements, and all her creatures are connected. Nature is usually represented in my art and in my writing. I believe part of my life's journey is protecting nature and teaching others about all aspects of life and its turning of the wheel.

9. Beyond lobsters, what are some things local to Maine you are proud to share with visitors?

Ah, yes, lobsters and lighthouses. We’re definitely known for that, and I do love the coast. There’s a huge section of Maine that isn’t coastal, and I grew up in ‘the county’ as it’s known, which is a region at the top of the state rich in the history of potato farming. The other side of my family lives in the shadow of Mt. Katahdin and Baxter State Park. The landscapes and changing seasons are why I love Maine. We also have some great craft brews here, so cheers to that.

10. Although I'm happy to see the change of seasons, man, am I NOT a fan of winter lol. Weather gripes aside, let's say a hobbit shows up at your doorstep and says they need your help. What do you take for the journey?

A good pair of boots, my hiking pack (which is always fully stocked and ready to go), a leather journal to record the journey, a hooded cloak - with pockets!, and my bow and arrows. Plus a wee hip flask, of course.

11. Lol so those hips don't lie takes a WHOLE new meaning. Thanks so much for this and now, all that’s left is to roll out the burgundy carpet and let people know where they can connect with you?

Find me at heartofautumn.com which has all the info about my quilting, and Twitter/Facebook/Pinterest - @heartofautumn. If you’re on Instagram, I’m @kaileykit there.

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And there you have it, my friends. Another creative connection and happy to share a great friend with you who is doing a great little project I think could help you and any knit loving person you may know. As usual, thanks for the company and til next we connect...

Peace, love, and maki rolls

Conexiones Creativas – Ediciones Enserio

Conectar con gente bonita y con pasión siempre da gusto y si algo caracteriza a Daryana Rivera, es la pasión, ser una persona genuina, fajona y que mira sus sueños y A-TA-CA. La vida no es para quedarse con las ganas y cada vez que veo una publicación nueva bajo Ediciones Enserio, me llena de muchísima alegría. Así que pensé que era el momento perfecto para conocer más de esta casa editora y su punto de contacto por excelencia. 

 

1.Saludos Daryana y qué lindo tenerte en el blog. Cuéntanos un poco de Ediciones Enserio. ¿Cómo surgió? ¿Cuándo surgió? ¿Qué tal les va? ¿De dónde salió el nombre?

 

¡Muchas gracias a ti por invitarme! Ediciones Enserio surge a finales de abril de 2020. Meses antes de comenzar la pandemia, yo ofrecía servicios de auto publicación y estaba en busca de diversos espacios para programar presentaciones de los libros de los autores con los que trabajaba. Así conocí a Lizbeth y su librería Tazas y Portadas, que en ese entonces llevaba alrededor de tres meses operando en Hormigueros. Compartimos ideas e inquietudes respecto a la comunidad de autores boricuas en la isla, hasta que finalmente, decidimos crear un proyecto editorial. Ella desde la parte de ventas y yo desde la parte creativa. Estuvimos horas en conversaciones telefónicas haciendo brainstorming. Una noche, en una de esas chácharas, casi a punto de quedarnos dormidas, salió el nombre “Enserio” (del verbo enseriar(se) ‘ponerse serio’, aunque de manera formal se escribe separado). Nos gustó porque sonaba jocoso e informal, sin perder su significado. Los resultados con cada publicación han sido excepcionales. Creo que influye mucho el hecho de que no nos hemos enfocado únicamente en la literatura culta, sino que hemos experimentado un poco fuera del marco de lo tradicional. 

 

2. Eso he visto y en parte por eso me llamó tanto la atención de Tazas y Portadas y Enserio. Pues cuéntanos, ¿qué libros han publicado y publicarán en 2021?

 

Actualmente tenemos 6 autores, cuatro ya están publicados y dos están bajo contrato y serán publicados próximamente. «El tren y la escalinata» del autor Ramón Fontaine, saldrá a la venta pronto. Nuestra próxima publicación sale para finales de abril. Se titula «El Reino Esmeralda» del autor Ángel Merced López. En mayo, de la mano de la autora Carol Blanco, inauguramos nuestra sección ENSERIO KIDS, para los más chicos y los que, como nosotros, no dejamos de serlo nunca. Hemos recibido varios manuscritos que nos interesa trabajar aparte de los ya mencionados. Estoy en comunicación con los autores. A los lectores les adelantamos que vienen publicaciones muy buenas, que nos ponen el corazón a mil. Ya se enterarán. Por lo pronto, la meta que tengo es publicar un libro cada mes o cada dos meses, ya veremos cómo nos va. 

 

3.Si alguien tiene un manuscrito, ¿pueden someterlo? Si fuese el caso, ¿cómo es el proceso?

 

Recibimos manuscritos todo el tiempo. Pueden enviarlos a: edicionesenserio.pr@gmail.com. Una vez se recibe el manuscrito se realiza una lectura rápida, si nos interesa contactamos al autor y programamos una reunión inicial. Usualmente se realiza un informe de lectura inicial que contiene una parte técnica, una parte descriptiva y otra valorativa. En esta primera interacción, buscamos conocer un poco más a fondo al autor y su obra, pero lo más importante es conocer cuáles son sus necesidades o de qué manera podemos contribuir exactamente, pues cada autor se trabaja de manera distinta. Luego de la primera reunión, si nos interesa publicar la obra, se realiza una oferta editorial que será discutida en una segunda reunión. Del autor aceptar la oferta, procedemos a redactar el contrato en el que se establecen los términos y condiciones para la publicación.

 

4. Los llaman del Departamento de Turismo…necesitan ayuda haciendo un nuevo concepto de convención de libros para complementar los ya existentes. ¿Qué 5 cosas TIENEN que estar en una convención de Enserio?

 

(1) Arte, una convención de libros constituye un espacio de programación educativa y cultural para introducir o acercar a los lectores a los libros, el arte en todas sus formas me parece importantísimo. Visualizo un despliegue de las diferentes disciplinas de las artes recreando sus propias versiones de los libros de nuestros autores. Ejemplo: un pintor con un canvas en un caballete haciendo su propia representación de Walter y sus globos de colores, un pianista tocando una nostálgica melodía del Florén de «La muerte tiene canas», una bailarina ejecutando en expresión corporal Una mujer en llamas de «Malamañosa», o una dramatización del escrito: La batata de oro de nuestra antología «El humor es cosa seria». (2) Conversatorios con nuestros autores. (3) Sorteo de libros o Meeting VIP con nuestros autores. (4) Mucho café o té. (5) Promoción de la lectura en sus diferentes soportes. 

 

 

5. Ja ja ja me gusta que incluiste té en la ecuación. Te lo agradezco. :) Ok, otra pregunta diferente: Una panadería local quieren hacer un postre en honor de ustedes. ¿Qué es, qué tiene y cómo sabe?

 

Una tartaleta de frutas. La masa o galleta que sirve de base es Enserio, la variedad de frutas son nuestros autores, que brindan diversidad de historias al público, y nuestra visión es la crema que une todos los ingredientes. A los lectores les corresponde decirnos cómo sabe nuestra tartaleta…

 

6. Me gusta que le toque al lector describirlos. Bueno, además de las publicaciones, están lanzando Semillero Creativo. ¿Qué nos puedes contar de este esfuerzo?

 

Semillero Creativo era mi idea inicial antes de que naciera Ediciones Enserio. Se trata de una plataforma educativa virtual no ortodoxa y al alcance de todos que ofrecerá cursos en línea sobre literatura, arte y otros temas relacionados. Por el momento estamos promocionando nuestro primer Curso virtual de Novela de Género. El recurso invitado es uno de nuestros autores firmados en Enserio: Carlos Daniel. Me encanta la idea de que la gente encuentre en esta plataforma material educativo al que puede acceder desde donde quiera y cuando quiera, que puedan ir a su propio ritmo y decidir qué es lo que quieren aprender, a un costo bien accesible. Los cursos comenzarán desde $25. Interesados pueden escribirnos a: semillerocreativo.pr@gmail.com o enviar un DM a través de nuestra página de FB. 

 

7. Cuáles son los autores actuales que publican bajo Ediciones Enserio y cuáles son algunas de sus publicaciones más populares.

 

Actualmente contamos con cinco libros publicados y vamos para el sexto en abril. Ha sido una sorpresa con todos los autores hasta hoy. Es difícil hablar de publicaciones “más populares” porque el catálogo es variado y los resultados con cada libro han excedido nuestras expectativas. Tenemos a «Walter», que fue nuestra primera publicación, y que a pesar de ser una segunda edición ha sido todo un éxito. Logramos entrarla a diversos puntos de venta, desde librerías locales alrededor de la isla, hasta a las farmacias Walgreens, de la mano de la gente linda de JR. La gente ha amado a Walter y a sus globos de colores, continuamos recibiendo reseñas sobre este libro con frecuencia. Carlos Daniel se posiciona, sin duda, a convertirse en un autor de éxito internacional.

 

Cuando publicamos «La muerte tiene canas» una novela de Caleb E. Rijos Narváez, en menos de dos semanas ya estaban todas las copias vendidas. La mayor parte de ellas se vendieron a través de nuestra página web. Caleb es un fenómeno, es talentosísimo, no solo como escritor, sino también en otras facetas. Tiene una pluma sólida y profunda, un talento innato que nos ha dejado a todos boquiabiertos y con ganas de seguir leyéndolo. Y qué decir de Natalie, ella es una ola. Siempre he visualizado a Enserio como una gran ola de autores que lograrán cosas trascendentales, ella encarna esa visión. Es ver a una fuerza de la naturaleza plasmarse en papel, quien ha leído «Malamañosa» lo sabe, quien no, debe considerar seriamente leerla. Su voz poética te estremece, te desgarra, te deja desnudo en medio de un todo y de la nada, trasquilado. Luego te seduce; te acaricia, te enaltece… es todo eso a la vez. Ramón Fontaine, por su parte, se dirige más a los temas sociales. Su libro «El tren y la escalinata» está compuesto por dos historias que nos transportan a tiempos de antaño, y logran colocarnos frente a realidades innegables que siguen tan latentes hoy como hace sesenta años, realidades sociales que muchas veces nos cuesta mirar o que seguimos mirando con cinismo. 

 

Ángel X. Merced López, es el autor de «El Reino Esmeralda», el manuscrito en el que estamos trabajando actualmente. Leerlo es como si estuvieras en una sala de cine viendo “The Lord of the Rings”, sencillamente fascinante. Tienen que conocer a este autor, apostamos muchísimo a su talento. Por otra parte, Carol Blanco llega con un cuento infantil maravilloso, titulado «Nenita y el señor Chelo». Es una preciosura. Por el momento su hija está trabajando en las ilustraciones, auguramos que será un éxito su publicación.

 

8. ¿Cómo ha sido la dinámica con las librerías en Puerto Rico y cuáles han sido algunas que más apoyo han brindado?

 

La dinámica ha sido buena, incluso, han llegado mensajes de dos librerías locales solicitando que les hagamos llegar nuestras publicaciones y que les tengamos en cuenta cada vez que surja alguna novedad editorial, eso se agradece infinitamente. Hemos recibido mucho apoyo de Tazas y Portadas en Hormigueros, aunque Lizbeth no está trabajando directamente con Ediciones Enserio hace unos meses ya, continúan los esfuerzos y las colaboraciones para promover el maravilloso trabajo de nuestros autores boricuas. El Rincón Lector & Coffee Shop en Camuy, La Casita Books & Gifts en Aguadilla, Librería Laberinto en VSJ y The Bookmark en Santurce, también han sido piezas claves. Aquí dos detalles que me gustaría resaltar: (1) Cuando visitamos El Rincón Lector & Coffee Shop en Camuy el recibimiento a nuestros autores fue de lujo. La propietaria sacó un rato para dedicar unas hermosas palabras a nuestros autores, insistiendo en la importancia de que sigan creando, moviéndose y creciendo en este sector. Es bonito ver que tratan a nuestra gente con ese respeto y admiración por lo que hacen. Nos sentimos muy honrados ese día. (2) Por su parte, Carlos Daniel fue recibido en la inauguración de The Bookmark,Santurce de forma inesperada. Tan pronto entró a la librería, le reconocieron y le dieron a firmar sus libros para dejar ejemplares firmados en la localidad. Agradecemos inmenso cada gesto que tienen con nuestros autores en las librerías, eso es lo que perseguimos; que se les honre, tanto a ellos como a sus obras. Estos pequeños detalles son un impulso para que continúen haciendo lo mejor que saben hacer: escribir.

 

9. De eso se trata y llena mucho leer que ha sido así. Sigo a muchos (sino todos) los autores bajo Enserio y se me infla el pecho. Bueno, a ponerte a pensar: Completa esta frase: El futuro de los libros en Puerto Rico… 

 

es brillante. Será una ola de autores gigantesca. 

 

10. La ñapa: Mirando festivales fuera de PR en el futuro, ¿hay alguno que tengan en la mirilla?

 

La Feria del Libro de Madrid.

 

11. EZPAÑA!!! Uso la zeta por graciocín aunque pues, bello el país. Y ahora lo que falta es que nos digas, ¿dónde pueden conseguir más info de Ediciones Enserio y ponerse en comunicación con la editora?

 

Pueden contactarnos a través de www.edicionesenserio.com o escribirnos un correo electrónico a:

 edicionesenserio.pr@gmail.com. 

En FB: /edicionesenserio

 

Genuinas gracias a ti, JD, por todo los esfuerzos y colaboraciones que haces. Gracias por pensar en colectivo y por incluirnos. Gracias por tanto respeto y cariño. Un cálido abrazo desde Puerto Rico, de parte de todos los que conformamos la familia de Ediciones Enserio. ¡Éxito siempre! Te queremos. 

 

 


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Y ahí ven por qué me hace tanta falta Casa, mejor conocido como Puerto Rico. Mi gente me llena el pecho de orgullo así que un abrazo a Daryana y a todos los autores de Enserio. Da gusto y llena de orgullo ver el talento local y es mi placer servir de puente, enlace, o pana en común para que la gente se conozca y se den a conocer. Sigamos cosechando éxitos y conquistando libreros.

 

JD