but it's much rarer to express one's self in both words and art. EMYO does just that.
What a privilege it was to attend the launch at Dixon Gallery and Gardens last week of her book, Marisol's Dress. It began with a reading by Emily herself with the accompanying Spanish translation as her mom sat in the audience.
The story itself was inspired by her mother's journey from Cuba during the revolution as she fled the communist revolution there with only her abuela, one white dress that twirled and only one doll to a place across the blue ocean where she knew no one and did not even know the language spoken there.She carried her Mama's words in her heart.
Remember you are brave and you are loved.
When lonely in her room in America, Marisol has only white paper and some pencils. A great truth enters her mind.
She realized what she had in front of her was enough for today.
The book encourages all to face hardship with courage....
When life gives you lemons, make paper dolls.
EMYO's book has young readers searching for lemons on every page.
From the large impressionist art works from which the illustrations were drawn to the unique words and phrases included, the book itself is truly a complete work of art.
Marisol's Dress is so special to me because the book depicts the life of EMYO's mom, a dear, dear friend of mine. It also can inspire others, regardless of the age, to know they are brave and loved in the midst of challenges.
Needless to say, I will pass this treasure on to each of my granddaughters.
