Running

by Natalia Sylvester

  I wrote early parts of this book during my time at the Las Dos Brujas Writers’ Workshop; every prompt, exercise, and reading that Cristina García shared with us unlocked a window into my characters. Mil gracias, Maestra, for the inspiration and empowerment. To every brujx in our workshop: I’m blessed to be in a community with you. A big shout-out also to the Loma Linda writers for sharing space with me in Maxwell as I wrote this book, and for helping me overcome the many wasp stings I encountered along the way! My deepest gratitude to ire’ne lara silva for always reading my first words and seeing them not just for what they are but what they’ll become. Demery Bader-Saye, Everlee Cotnam, Kate Cotnam, Barbara Sparrow, and Raul Palma, I can’t thank you enough for your invaluable feedback and encouragement along this book’s journey. Each of you played such a uniquely meaningful part.

  I finished later drafts of this book during my time as a writer-in-residence at the Betsy Hotel in Miami Beach. Thank you to Deborah Briggs and everyone at the Betsy for providing me with such beautiful time and space to write.

  My love in every thought, word, and story goes, always, to my parents and my sister: Ceci, Ramon, and Ursula. Gracias, Nonnita, for the gift of poetry and words from a young age. Thank you also to my family in-love: Odalis, Ily and Lissy, Rey and Kathleen for your beautiful and loving support. I also want to give a very special thank-you to my Nonno and to Lolo, two amazing men who inspired so much of Abuelo in this story. Finally, and always, Eric. Every day I wake up smiling, full of love for you, and in awe that we found each other. Sharing this journey with you makes everything possible.

  To anyone reading this who’s ever felt their voice deep within, wanting to come out: You are an inspiration and a force.

  hmhteen.com

  About the Author

  NATALIA SYLVESTER is the author of two novels for adults, Chasing the Sun and Everyone Knows You Go Home, which won an International Latino Book Award. Born in Lima, Peru, she grew up in Florida and Texas and received a BFA in creative writing from the University of Miami. She now lives in Texas.

  Running is her YA debut.

  Learn more at nataliasylvester.com

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