Tropical coasts, lush interior jungles, storied Mayan and Aztec ruins, majestic colonial architecture — Mexico is an inspired background for stories that explore the joy (and challenges) of family and the magic of everyday experiences.
The urban center of Mexico City is a thriving metropolis with a history of great art (Hello, Frida!), tree-lined plazas, and so much energy. In the beach- and mountainside villages, the vibe is more laid back — a siesta is always a good idea, no?
Mexico is a natural paradise. There are snow-capped volcanoes and migrating Monarch butterflies, turquoise-blue waters and cactus-dotted deserts. And everywhere you go, a welcoming smile, an invitation to relax.
The only reasonable accompaniment to the sultry weather is earthy food with a touch of spice: handmade corn tortillas, a slow-simmered mole, stunningly fresh salsa, fish plucked from the ocean and grilled asap. This is all best enjoyed, of course, in a seaside palapa or a taqueria stand in the shade — with a smooth chaser of tequila to celebrate the pleasure of the moment.
In this episode, we briefly explore Mexico’s history and culture, then get into the books. We discuss two wildly different family sagas: one is set during the Mexican Revolution and infused with magical realism; the other travels back-and-forth in time from modern Mexico City to the 1940s and ’50s. We also recommended a moving coming-of-age story set in Chicago and Mexico, a detailed history of chocolate (!), and an un-put-downable beach read. (show notes / transcript)
Top image courtesy of Frederik Trovatten.com/Unsplash.
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