Latino Book Chat

Christianne Meneses Jacobs
  • 4.9 (15)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Latino Book Chat presents interviews with Latino authors and illustrators about their recent works, and conversations with experts in Latino literature.

  1. JAN 14

    72. Rick Najera ~ A Story of Political Exodus

    A missing history finally told. Author Rick Najera joins us to discuss his ambitious new project, The Latino Family Chronicles, starting with the gold-standard saga of the d'Escoto family in Love, Truth, and Loyalty. Listen to the true story of how one powerful Nicaraguan family risked everything: political power, fortune, and safety to protect their lineage and forge a new life. Najera explains the urgency behind documenting these stories and why the d'Escoto story sets the standard for the entire series.

    30 min

  2. 12/03/2025

    71. Hady Mendez ~ The Courage to Speak Up

    In this empowering episode, we sit down with Hady Mendez, author of Calladita No More: My Latina Journey and the Lessons that Shaped Me. Hady shares her pivotal transition from feeling pressured to be the "little quiet one" to becoming a powerful, outspoken leader. She dives into the cultural sayings (refranes) that shaped her life, and offers practical strategies for self-advocacy and succeeding as an underestimated professional in the corporate world. Prepare to be inspired to find your voice and own your narrative. Listen now at LatinoBookChat.com

    31 min

  3. 11/12/2025

    70. Yvette Canoura ~ Passport to Heritage

    This episode is a celebration of cultural heritage, family connection, and adventure. We discuss the journey of Hasán, a young boy with Syrian and Puerto Rican roots, as he travels to Puerto Rico for the first time. We explore how he discovers the vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and new language that connect him to an unknown part of his identity. Get inspired by Hasán's exploration of Puerto Rico's traditions and warmth.

    31 min

  4. 10/15/2025

    69. Maria Lopez Twena ~ The Unseen Role of the Immigrant Child

    Join us as we dive into MariVi the Master Navigator: All Aboard, the latest installment from Maria Lopez Twena. MariVi, now in third grade, faces one of her most relatable challenges yet: feeling self-conscious about her culture. We discuss the pivotal moment when MariVi meets a new biracial, Spanish-speaking classmate and suddenly worries about what her friends think when Spanish is spoken in public. The series serves as a crucial guide for families as their children learn to embrace their dual heritage and recognize their invaluable role as cultural navigators. Discover how Twena's books are transforming this challenging experience into a superpower of duality.

    27 min

  5. 09/17/2025

    68. Julio Lucero ~ The Grandson's Tale: Family, Food, and Finding His Place

    Join us as we dive into Abuelita, I Am Your Grandson, a powerful and poignant memoir by Julio Lucero. Julio Lucero's book is a collection of autobiographical stories about his experiences working in his family's Mexican restaurant, Julio's Cafe, in Hyde Park, Texas. The book is not a single narrative but a series of "snapshots" that cover themes like Mexican gastronomy, business, and lessons in language and culture. It offers a humorous and heartfelt look at the reality of running a family-owned restaurant, exploring the relationships, challenges, and traditions that come with it. It’s described as a love letter to family, food, and the chaos of the restaurant business.

    27 min

  6. 08/20/2025

    67. Prisca Mojica ~ Honoring the Women Who Shaped Us

    In this episode, we delve into "Tías and Primas: On Knowing and Loving the Women Who Raised Us" by Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez. Join us as we explore the powerful stories of sisterhood, resilience, and love that define the lives of Latinas and their relationships with the women who shaped them. We’ll discuss the book's heartfelt tributes to tías, primas, and all the fierce women whose wisdom and care anchor family and community. Tune in to LatinoBookChat.com for a heartfelt conversation celebrating legacy, identity, and the bonds that transcend generations.

    31 min

  7. 07/09/2025

    66. Mina Brower ~ Bound by Magic, Torn by Fate

    In this episode, we explore “A God of Moonlight and Stardust” by Mina Brower, a sweeping romantic fantasy set in a futuristic world where forbidden magic collides with divine longing. Follow Renna, a powerful young woman caught between two enigmatic protectors: Khellios, the guilt-ridden God of Moon and Stars, and Sethos, a mysterious supernatural being who haunts her dreams. As chaos threatens the sanctuary of Taria, Renna must choose between a life of peace or embracing her destiny as a daughter of chaos. Perfect for fans of sci-fi romance, morally gray heroes, and high-stakes magical worlds. Listen now at LatinoBookChat.com

    29 min

  8. 06/11/2025

    65. Rex Ogle ~ Doña Quijote and the Magic of Graphic Novels

    In this episode, we sit down with award-winning author Rex Ogle to dive into the pages of his latest graphic novel, Doña Quijote. A fresh and imaginative twist on the legendary tale, Ogle brings humor, heart, and a modern edge to the iconic character. We discuss the inspirations behind his story, the themes of identity and adventure, and the creative process of crafting a graphic novel. Join us for an insightful conversation about storytelling, representation, and the magic of believing in yourself—no matter what the world says. Tune in today to LatinoBookChat.com

    29 min
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4.9
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Latino Book Chat presents interviews with Latino authors and illustrators about their recent works, and conversations with experts in Latino literature.

Information

  • Creator
    Christianne Meneses Jacobs
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Christianne Meneses Jacobs
  • Show Website
    Latino Book Chat