Last Seen in San Francisco July 2, 2015 – Posted in: Edwin Fontanez, Illuminated Forest, News

“Anyone who disappears is said to be seen in San Francisco…” –Oscar Wilde

That might as well have been the axiom that characterized us, a select group of Latino writers, over the past few days during the 2015 International Latino Book Awards in that glorious vintage city. Back in April when I was informed that my illustrated novel The Illuminated Forest was a finalist in the category Best YA Fiction Book – English, I began to count my blessings. Not only had my novel garnered a reputable badge of recognition, but the fact that I found myself in the company of some well-known authors from big publishing houses became an affirmation for me of how far Exit Studio Publishing has come. But the icing on the literary cake became even sweeter when I learned the awards ceremony would be held in San Francisco. I had barely finished reading the congratulatory e-mail before plane, cat sitter, and hotel reservations were made! A momentous occasion such as the ILBA nomination justified the excuse for a visit to that storied and vibrant city. Although I did not bring you a T-shirt, I did prepare a pictorial album gathering the best moments of the experience. As a final thought I must say now I can relate to Tony Bennett’s lament of leaving his heart there!

Love Always,

Edwin