Why American Dirt?
We read this novel long before its release date and the controversy surrounding it began. A number of people have been critical of the novel because a Latino author did not write it and the story is very much rooted in the culture and experiences of that community. We respect and honour this opinion while also believing this novel is compelling, timely and important. We hope you will agree.
Lydia and Luca’s story is unlike any novel we’ve read before. Their experiences as migrants making a journey we’ve only heard about are powerful, heartbreaking and at times beautiful. We could not put this book down as we yearned to find out whether they would survive the journey. The novel reminds us of the resilience required to persevere through trauma and gives the reader a glimpse into the migrant experience.
What’s in the box?
*Mexico – San Cristobel Coffee – Kyoto Coffee – A perfect pot of delicious medium roast coffee. The ideal drink to compliment an afternoon of reading.
*Sinfully Raw Vanilla Stone Ground Dark Chocolate – Chocosol – We chose this chocolate from well known Toronto Chocosol Traders who blend cacao varieties from indigenous communities in Mexico, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, and Ecuador.
*Fierce Enamel Pin – Danica Studio – Lydia and so many of the characters embody this word. Let this pin be a symbol of your own fierceness.
*Week From Hell Lip Balm – Walton Wood Farm – We see lip balm used at various points in the novel as Lydia and Luca deal with the blazing sun and sun damaged lips. Take care of your lips with this natural lip balm.
*Empire Zippered Pouch - Danica Studio – The eagle is a powerful symbol in Mexico (and America) making it a fitting image for this canvas pouch. We felt this type of durable pouch would be similar to the one Lydia carries.
Cactus Pencils – Kikkerland – While the experiences of the characters in the novel are anything but fun, we wanted to add a lighter touch to the box with cactus pencils perfect for school, work or home office.
*A Canadian company
