We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Geneva Escobedo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Geneva, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I began my second career as a writer/author after journaling for many years while in college and during my work life. To become a talented writer I joined two women’s writing groups, took several creative writing classes and participated in numerous workshops on writing and publishing. After retiring from a 30-year career in higher education, I devoted my time to write and publish my first two books. To accomplish this I pursued feedback and direction from published authors and writing professionals on book ideas, manuscript development and how to promote my books. I am an avid reader and I focus on reading a wide variety of authors. I attend the Tucson Festival of Books yearly to listen to prominent authors and attend workshops.

To speed up my learning process, I would have read more books on the creating writing process and attended more classes on how to write in various genres. Writing skills develop over time and getting feedback from other writers early on would have helped.

An authors skills include excellent knowledge of grammar and punctuation as well as having a strong and varied vocabulary. Knowing what you want to convey to the reader and who your potential readers are is helpful. Having the imagination to paint a vivid picture in words and storytelling ability is essential. Skills in marketing via social media, book promotion, creating and maintaining a website are also important skills. I hired a professional to work with me on developing my brand, my website and my marketing materials. With this knowledge I have held successful book launches and continue to post on social media to promote my events and books.

I considered obtaining a Masters in Creating Writing, but my busy profession and raising a family caused me to not make this a priority. My career in higher education was important so I worked on creative writing when I could squeeze it in. Currently I am a full time caretaker for my 95-year old mother and I fit in learning my craft and book manuscript development as best I can.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a 75 year-old retiree, grandmother, and great-grandmother who has many stories to tell. My 30-year career in higher education allowed me to teach college classes, support students in completing their degrees, and gain skills in marketing and public relations, public speaking, grant writing and grant management. I believe learning is a lifetime experience. I continue to take classes to sharpen my writing skills and enhance my creativity.

I have always enjoyed the written word. My favorite high school and college classes were English and English literature. I constantly read and enjoy the works of diverse authors. I am impressed by Latinx authors who have inspired me to publish my work and continue to share my stories. After journaling for several years and participating in two women’s writing groups, I was compelled to publish and become an author. For the past eight years I have focused on improving my craft, getting published and learning how to use social media to promote my work. With the help of a consultant/graphic designer, I developed my brand and keep my website updated. I have presented at writing conferences, high school and college writing classes and have participated in a local podcast for creatives. I was interviewed for Barrio Stories (Latino USA Network) where I shared my Chicano activism and my journey on becoming an author. I am most proud of publishing “Dichos de mi Padre/Sayings of my Father” which received Honorable Mention for Best First Book Non-Fiction Award at the 2018 International Latino Book Awards Program. My second book, “Reflections of the Heart: Stories and Poems from Life,” received Honorable Mention for Most Inspirational Book Non-Fiction at the 2024 International Latino Book Awards Program.

My genre is poetry and short stories (so far). What sets me apart is that I am a Chicana, second generation Mexican-American and bilingual (Spanish). My work reflects my identity, culture, language, and spiritual values. I write to connect with women and families, diverse readers, teachers and students. I write from life.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

As a creative writer and author, the most rewarding part is when readers relay similar stories and how my work reminds them of family events, loved one, and experiences that are important to them. Through my storytelling many have been inspired to write and begin their creative process. I am also proud to feature incredible family members and friends who have inspired me and who make a difference in the world. It is my way of honoring them and highlighting their gifts.

As a guest instructor in college writing classes, I am rewarded by guiding students to write a piece for a class assignment that makes them proud. I hope to inspire them to open their minds about writing and sharing their stories. They inspire me with their written pieces and willingness to share about themselves.

Also rewarding is presenting at writers workshops and participating in panel discussions on women and Latina authors. I am energized when readers ask me, “What is your next book about? It motivates me to keep going. Words are powerful and you never know how you will impact readers. Creative writing is an avenue to express positivity, kindness, healing, and compassion.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My goal as a creative writer is to continue to publish and inspire others to write. As a Chicana author I would like diverse readers to understand my Mexican-American culture and history and the values important in our society. In telling my stories and life lessons, I can help others and open minds. Many of my poems/stories have resulted in laughter and tears.

In my writing journey I want to inspire others and create positive vibes whether on a spiritual or emotional level.
An additional goal is to write about family members and friends who contribute positively as leaders and inspire others to be the best they can be.

My mission is to be an excellent author, help others become authors and keep the creative juices flowing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://genevacreativewriting.com
• Instagram: genevacreativewriting
• Facebook: Geneva Escobedo

Image Credits

My brand was created by Angela Soliz, artist, graphic designer and educator.