Authors David Bowles and Guadalupe Garcia McCall collaborated on a modern retelling of an ancient Mesoamerican legend in their latest book, “Hearts of Fire and Snow.” The story is inspired by the myth of the volcanoes outside Mexico City, believed to have been formed from a warrior and his deceased lover. This contemporary version is set in modern-day Reno, Nevada, and a high school, adding a unique twist to the classic tale.
“Hearts of Fire and Snow” has been selected for the Texas Book Festival lineup this year, marking a significant achievement for the authors. Garcia McCall expressed her deep connection to the original myth, stating that the love story intertwined with nature resonated with her. She found inspiration in the timeless themes of love, tragedy, and sacrifice present in the legend, much like the classic narrative of Romeo and Juliet.
Bowles, on the other hand, recalled discovering the myth in high school and being captivated by its cultural and emotional depth. He recognized the universal themes of love, despair, and joy that transcend time and culture, making the story relevant even in modern times. The novel aims to explore these fundamental human experiences and shed light on the values and beliefs of pre-Columbian Mesoamerican societies.
For Garcia McCall, writing this book was a way to fill a void she experienced growing up on the Texas-Mexico border, where literature primarily featured Greek and Norse mythology. She saw an opportunity to bring Indigenous stories and cultural heritage to the forefront of American literature by collaborating with Bowles, a historian passionate about Mexican literature. Together, they hoped to introduce readers to narratives that reflect the richness and diversity of their shared heritage.
Beyond the mythological retelling, “Hearts of Fire and Snow” delves into complex themes such as acculturation, immigration, social hierarchy, and politics. Garcia McCall emphasized the importance of readers identifying with the characters’ struggles, desires, and aspirations, highlighting the common human experiences that bind us together. The story ultimately revolves around the universal desires for love, redemption, family, and community, resonating with readers on a deeply personal level.
As readers immerse themselves in the pages of “Hearts of Fire and Snow,” they are invited to explore the intricacies of human relationships, cultural heritage, and personal identity. The novel serves as a bridge between past and present, tradition and modernity, offering a glimpse into the enduring power of myths and legends to shape our understanding of the world and ourselves. Through this captivating retelling, Bowles and Garcia McCall invite us to reflect on the timeless truths that connect us all as human beings.
