In “Retablos: Stories from a Life Lived Along the Border,” Octavio Solis paints an intricate mosaic of his childhood, much like the devotional retablos that adorn homes along the Texas-Mexico border. These small, vibrant paintings, rooted in traditional Catholic iconography, mirror the colorful yet challenging realities of border life that Solis experienced as a “skinny brown kid” in El Paso.
Solis recounts his experiences growing up in a border town, capturing the essence of life steeped in both religious tradition and the ever-present tension of immigration. In an interview with PBS, Solis discussed how he was often questioned by U.S. Border Patrol agents despite being a U.S. citizen, which deeply influenced his perspective and writing.
Solis has collected retablos for years, describing them as “flash fiction stories” encapsulated in a single image with a bit of writing. His memoir reflects this style, offering vivid snapshots of his past.
In the book, Solis revisits El Paso, describing it as “walking into a retablo with a rusty surface for a sky and misremembered family and friends for saints and supplicants.” The book is filled with the “lost, distilled moments” of his border past, brought to life with his blend of reality and fiction.
A celebrated playwright with more than 20 plays to his name, Solis is a leading Latino voice in American theater. His work often addresses themes of border life and immigration, as seen in his modern retelling of “Don Quixote” and his role as a cultural consultant for the Disney film “Coco,” in which he also was credited for a minor voice role.
“Retablos: Stories from a Life Lived Along the Border” is the latest pick of the El Paso Matters Book Club, which introduces readers to authors from the region. The club features book selections every two months, book reviews and author Q&As, as well as in-person discussions with the authors.
You can join the bimonthly club by clicking here.
Reading Schedule
July 2-9: pgs. 1-23
July 10-16: pgs 24-45
July 17-23: pgs. 46-67
July 24-30: pgs. 68-88
July 31-Aug. 6: pgs. 89-109
Aug. 7-13: pgs.110-129
Aug. 14-20: pgs. 130-150
Aug. 21-27: pgs. 151- END
How to get the book
Shop local at Literarity Book Shop, 5411 N. Mesa St. in Pepper Tree Square, and 100% of the profits will be donated to El Paso Matters.
Check out a copy at your El Paso Public Library branch. Place a hold if unavailable.
The post Discover Octavio Solis’ Memoir ‘Retablos’ — El Paso Matters Book Club pick appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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