Local author Carlota Roa was recognized with an Honorable Mention at the International Latino Book Awards, one of the most prestigious competitions dedicated to Spanish and English literature in the United States.
This year’s event was held at MiraCosta College on Oct. 25.
“This was amazing,” she said, noting around 5,000 people submitted work to various categories. “It was a heavy competition.”
The award was granted for her work Calaveras Literarias, a book that pays tribute to the Mexican tradition of calaveras. It blends creativity, satire and poetry in a unique style meant to resonate with readers of all ages.
“It’s a very cultural book,” she said. “This is very important book for me.”
The book features real people, including her grandfather who fought in the Mexican revolution. Another character: her ex-husband, a mountain climber who summited Denali in Alaska.
“He was the first Mexican doing this solo,” she said.
With this recognition, Roa strengthens her place as a prominent voice in contemporary Latin American literature, bringing the cultural and literary richness of Mexico to an international audience.
“Receiving this distinction is an honor I share with my community and with all those who keep alive the tradition of calaveras literarias,” said the author.
Every year, the International Latino Book Awards, organized by Latino Literacy Now, recognizes the excellence of writers and publishers who promote the culture, language and stories of the Latino community around the world.
Carlota Roa grew up during the 60s “golden era” of Mexico City. She emigrated to California in the late 1980s. She is a visual artist, writer and Spanish teacher.
