University Libraries will present the Premio Aztlán, its premier writing award, to Gene Guerin, author of “Cottonwood Saints.” This is Guerin’s first book, although he has written documentary film scripts. He will accept his award and talk about his work on Tuesday, April 11, at 4 p.m. in the Willard Reading Room of Zimmerman Library on the UNM main campus. Books will be available for sale and refreshments will be served.
Photo: Gene Guerin
UNM Libraries revived the Premio Aztlán award, first established by author Rudolfo Anaya and his wife Patricia, to encourage writers who were just beginning their publishing careers. Anaya says it is important to recognize and encourage writers so they will continue to work. Premio Aztlán carries a $1000 cash award.
Guerin’s book chronicles the lives of a New Mexico woman, Margarita Juana Galvan, and her son Michael. The story, told through Michael’s eyes, explores the challenges faced by an intelligent, independent-minded girl maturing in a man’s world. Margarita’s family is affected by the prominent events of the century - the influenza pandemic of 1918, the rise of the Ku Klux Klan, the Great Depression and World War II.
“We are excited to award Premio Aztlán to this interesting new voice,” says Camila Alire, dean of University Libraries. “We join with Rudy and Patricia in seeking out the best emerging Chicana/Chicano writers in the nation.”
Guerin will also meet and talk to students at a special morning event from 11 a.m. to noon.
Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu