Author Ruben Reyes is a new but standout voice in the literary community. Part sci-fi with echoes of Get Out, his short story, The Myth of the Self-Made Man, is a unique listening experience about the Latino experience in America. As a student of literature, Reyes also indulges in captivating and immersive audiobook journeys whenever he can. Here are some of his favorites.
Whenever I encounter a Ted Chiang story, I'm transported to a new world that still feels deeply familiar. These stories perfectly blend the wonder and intrigue of science fiction, while also reminding listeners of the emotions and relationships that make us human.
Butler is known for her expansive novels, but her short stories contain as much richness. As a true visionary of the world—and what the world would become—Octavia Butler remains, for me, the science fiction writer all readers should know.
If one wants to understand the long history of migration to the United States, Luiselli's book-length essay is a great place to start. With care and compassion, she explores why children from Central America risk everything on their journeys northward.
Growing up as the child of Salvadoran immigrants, I never knew much about my parents' homeland and the war that occurred during their lifetimes. Lovato's memoir offers essential information about El Salvador, while also reminding us that our relationships—to family, to friends—cannot be separated from the politics and histories that have shaped us.
