Publisher's Synopsis
Lotería - A Poem Collection captures the life of a Mexican American growing up in Los Angeles, told through poetry inspired by the traditional Mexican bingo game, Lotería. Author Esteban Miranda brings each playing card to life with vivid, concise poems that reflect on identity, culture, resilience, and personal growth. Rooted in the rich, enduring traditions of Mexican culture, Lotería is more than just a game-it's a symbol of family, language, heritage, and belonging. Once hesitant to play due to a fear of mispronouncing the Spanish words, Miranda now reclaims those same words through poetry, using them as a bridge to reconnect with his cultural roots. This collection explores the complexities of growing up as a middle child, navigating school, and struggling to find a sense of identity and belonging. Through reinterpretations of the iconic Lotería imagery, Miranda offers a powerful and personal perspective on cultural identity, memory, and the untold stories hidden within each card. This poetry collection brings to life each card, and it often provides a backstory of the deeper significance of that symbol and where it came from. Lotería is a book that celebrates the beloved, common family game through striking imagery, lyrical writing, and heartfelt poetry.