What inspired you to write your memoir?
The inspiration for “With Love, The Argentina Family” came about like one of my mother’s recipes…a pinch of this, a dash of that and a healthy dollop of the other. First and foremost, I wrote it for my kids; I have three adult children. My sense of family and constancy urged me to give them a tangible link- something that will forever remind them that they came from this loving, enduring stock made up of Jewish values, Russian ancestry, and Argentine culture. In addition to that rather emotionally charged motivator, I was encouraged to write the story by friends, family, and strangers alike; people who have continually said that my story was unique and enlightening. Recently, I found myself whiling away a few hours on a tour bus. My fellow passengers and I engaged in customary small talk…”Where are you visiting from?” “What an unusual name! Where are you from originally? ”
My decision to write this memoir was validated once again as two lovely ladies, both teachers and lovers of history, genealogy and romance said, “That is the greatest story I ever heard! You should write a book!” Imagine my pride and sense of accomplishment when I turned to them both and said, “I did!” (They both ended up purchasing the book.)
About your Book:
With Love, The Argentina Family ~ Memories of Tango and Kugel; Mate with Knishes is a unique account unfolding in “die goldene medina” (America) following the insecurities and confusion of a young, immigrant girl. With a mother that never stops crying about The Argentina Family and a father who procures employment with an international airline, her life is divided in between her adopted country and her native land. Dramas and simchas (delights, joys) abound with a long distance, whirlwind relationship unfolding in the aftermath of Argentina’s “Dirty War”, including a frightening interrogation with the Argentine Police and an astonishing encounter at the American Consulate.
Follow the sometimes comical, sometimes poignant trials and tribulations of a girl coming to terms with her Jewish heritage, her Argentine traditions and her fierce American patriotism.
How did you decide how to publish your book and where is it published through:
It took me about two years of work and yet; once I typed that final word, the real struggle began. I had no clue how to get the book published “the old-fashioned way.” Researching on the Internet, I learned about marketing proposals, submission requirements and inquiry letters; the entire undertaking felt like a full time job that required a university degree. Although I received several positive and encouraging emails in reply, no one wanted to pursue the project. It seemed an impossible task for this “newbie” memoir scribbler, so I began considering the self- publishing route with renewed enthusiasm. Createspace seemed to be a good fit for my project. It afforded me the opportunity to publish easily and cost-effectively. The name recognition didn’t hurt either…Amazon, hello? The book is published through Amazon, a parent company of Createspace.
How do you see writing a Memoir as different from writing other genres of books?
Personal reflection, memories both bitter and sweet, unique experiences, an eccentric, relative or two; I believe these attributes contribute to making a memoir slightly different from other genres. An author can create a story line for her historical romance or for the next great “whodunit”, but a memoirist’s story might touch the reader’s heart and imagination on a whole other level. Knowing that you are sharing someone’s personal experiences, creates a stronger, “familial”, bond between author and reader.
Author Bio:
Mirta’s self-proclaimed life’s career has been raising a family and creating a home, alongside her husband of almost thirty years. She returned to the world of the gainfully employed late in life; currently in a position which doesn’t require “one iota of dramatic flair – just common sense, organization and attention to detail.” Rather than being self-deprecating, Mirta lightheartedly concedes that her paper pushing makes a number of people happy, as that bureaucratic busywork ensures that payroll is met and invoices are processed. Besides being an avid novel reader and a devoted Beatles fan, Mirta most enjoys choral music and researching family genealogy.
Website(s)
Author Home Page Link
Link To Book On Amazon
Link to Book for sale via other sites
Your Social Media Links
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17170503-with-love-the-argentina-family
https://www.facebook.com/WithLoveTheArgentinaFamily
http://pinterest.com/m4fab4/my-memoir-with-love-the-argentina-family~-memories/
