Marcela Fuentes: “The Power and the Passion of Malas"

The SMU Department of English and its Narrative Now Initiative are thrilled to announce an upcoming visit from Marcela Fuentes, Pushcart Prize-winning fiction writer, essayist, and author of Malas, one of the most talked-about novels of summer 2024 and a Good Morning America Book Club Pick.

The author is giving a free talk, titled “The Power and the Passion of Malas,” which will take place on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the Frances Anne Moody Auditorium. The event offers the SMU community and the public a chance to engage with Fuentes' compelling narrative voice and themes of resilience, identity, and transformation.

Event Schedule
Reception: 5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Author Talk and Q&A: 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Book Signing: 6:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Malas has received resounding praise from readers and critics alike. Lauded for its emotional depth, insightful commentary on identity, and raw portrayal of passion and power, the novel has been described as “an antidote for the hard-line essentialism that has made this world an intolerant, violent place” (The New York Times Book Review). The story resonates deeply with readers across generations and backgrounds, and critics have called the novel “the next great Texas literary epic” (Texas Monthly).

Dr. Christopher González, Department Chair of English, expressed excitement about the visit, saying, “Marcela Fuentes’ work has sparked vital conversations within and beyond the literary community. Malas is a novel that speaks to the heart and the intellect, challenging us to reconsider boundaries, both personal and cultural. We are honored to welcome her to SMU.”

Narrative Now invites all members of the SMU community, as well as the general public, to join in this unique opportunity to hear from one of today’s most riveting literary voices. The event is free, but space is limited. Early arrival is recommended.

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