I love stories. Our very existence is based on stories, from the creation of the world to how it will end. Stories form the roots of our beliefs, tell us what to expect from life, and how to react to it.
CON YANCI has been written for my grandchildren; they highlight some of the values that I would like to pass on to my future generations. The plots and the illustrations are all original, inspired by Iktomi the trickster spider from Old Indian Legends. What I find attractive about Ancient Native American stories is that they are based on the concept that all living and non-living things are interconnected and everything that exists is part of one spirit. Their stories emphasize the need to live in harmony with everything on this planet, animals, plants and natural resources.
Living and working in different parts of the world has underlined, for me, the importance of incorporating the values of Ancient Native American people into our daily life. Some of the countries I have called home include Great Britain, Pakistan, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and the United States of America, and I am hoping to add more to this list in the future. Focusing on global challenges of the 21st Century, I use the history, geography, flora and fauna of California as the background because at the time of writing these stories, I am living in California and this is my home.
I would appreciate feedback on the content, style and the illustrations.
I have enjoyed all three of your stories so far and hope to keep up with the future ones! What a wonderful asset full of wisdom and wit to share with your grandchildren- and children and grown ups in general! We can all relate to trickster characters in our life at one point or another- but our ability to overcome them is truly exilerating and liberating! This is what our children need to know and your stories convey that feeling in a very beautiful and subtle way! Well done and keep writing!
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Both of your stories I meant!
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Thank you, Saira, my own grandmothers were a vital part of my life. My memory of the things they said will naturally be faulty, but many of my beliefs have roots in their beliefs, so the thought process hasn’t been broken. I hope my children will add to and improve these thoughts.
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I think your stories and art work are beautiful. I’ve sent your site to my grand daughters who are talented in art and illustration. One is going to a workshop art school up in Portland – she thinks you should publish a book if you’ve not done that yet. I’m in your OLLI class on Tuesdays – very impressed and love your work.
Al Salem
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Thank you very much! I haven’t published any of these stories yet. I made one attempt earlier this year, but didn’t hear back and then got busy with other things. It really makes me happy that you like the stories.
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