The Latino and Latin American Studies program of the Institute for Ethnic Studies, along with the Creative Writing Program/English Department, present acclaimed author Chantel Acevedo.

About THE DISTANT MARVELS, set in Cuba: Maria Sirena tells stories. She does it for money—she was a favorite in the cigar factory where she worked as a lectora—and for love, spinning gossamer tales out of her own past for the benefit of friends, neighbors, and family. But now, like a modern-day Scheherazade, she will be asked to tell one last story so that eight women can keep both hope and themselves alive.

Chantel Acevedo’s novels include: LOVE AND GHOST LETTERS, winner of the Latino International Book Award; SONG OF THE RED CLOAK, a historical novel for young adults; A FALLING STAR, winner of the Doris Bakwin Award and National Bronze Medal IPPY Award; and THE DISTANT MARVELS. Her most recent chapbook of poetry, EN OTRO OZ, was released this year by Finishing Line Press.

www.chantelacevedo.com