With so much going virtual in the throes of Covid-19, I wanted to explore sites to learn more about what people of color are writing. In seeking to investigate the roads less traveled, I came across some sites and articles that sparked my interest.
These Writers Are Launching A New Wave Of Native American Literature https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/annehelenpetersen/dont-f-with-tommy-and-terese
If you haven’t read this BUZZFEED article, it’s a must read. I not only learned about the writers Terese Marie Mailhot (author of Heart Berries) and Tommy Orange (author of There There), but got schooled on the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) which offers the first indigenous-centered MFA program in the U.S.
Paula Farmer
Paula is a former journalist with a wonderfully diverse professional background. Her broad-based experience lends depth and nuance to her reviews of books, films, travel, food & wine, and features. She has worked for the independent bookstore Book Passage organizing events on race and social justice and is the Chairperson of the Diversity and Inclusion subcommittee for the California Independent Booksellers Alliance (CALIBA). Check out the site to help guide you on what to read and/or watch as you shelter in place.
Las Musas Books
Las Musas is a collective of women and non-binary (identifying on the female spectrum) Latinx Picture Book, Middle Grade, and Young Adult debut authors. This site contains thumbnails of books organized by year. It’s a great resource to keep up to date on the latest releases. They also host webinars with authors. If you have young ones in your life, make sure stay in touch with what Latina/x writers are creating.
Where Asian American writers find inspiration
If you missed this DATEBOOK article by Vanessa Hua, I’d strongly recommend you change that now. There are several books that I’m planning to read because of her interviews with Bay Area writers asking about the books that inspired them. The site mentions a book by one of my favorite authors, Yiyun Li.
Gael Sylvia Pullen
Gael Sylvia Pullen is the author of the forthcoming book, The Good Around Us which will launch virtually on May 20, 2020 via Facebook live. I did an interview with her for my blog post on May 13, 2020. You can read it here: http://mariaramoschertok.com/category/blog/
I’ll be in conversation with her at her virtual book launch today (5/20/20) at 1:30 pm (PACIFIC), so come join the fun!
Latinxs in Kids Lit
I love this site and am partial because I’m a guest blogger with them. It’s a great way to read about new books by Latinx authors (unlike the Las Musas site which showcases exclusively Latinas/writers identifying along the female spectrum) and to get a reviewer’s take on the book. I’ve had so much fun reading and sharing my views and teaching tips. A great resource for teachers and parents alike.
Photo by Hunter Newton www.unsplash.com