One of the highlights of my life was presenting my novel, Cuando una mujer se levanta, to young and old in the House of Culture in Chenalho’, where the novel takes place. I was able to give everyone a free copy of the novel and convey to them my gratitude for all that I had learned from the people of Chenalho’. I told them:

“Please take a copy of my book as my way to repay you, the people of Chenalho’ for all you have given me. Maybe holding the book in your hand you will feel like I felt when everytime I went to visit a Pedrano family I received two tortillas with beans inside, or if there were not beans, some greens. I knew I would never be hungry wherever I went in Chenalho’. On Day of the Dead in 1987 I remember that there was a tamale waiting for me in everyone’s home. I remember watching my comadre make dozens of tamales for all her friends and relatives. I can’t invite you to eat with me in my home in New Mexico, but I can give you my book. May it be like a delicious tamale to you. May it nurture your soul, the way your food has nurtured my body.”

Earlier that week, I was deeply moved when Angelina, who had read my novel, invited me and some friends to her home for a meal of chicken in mole. After the meal she presented me with a blouse she had embroidered with my name.