If You Are Born To Be A Tamale

Step into a tale of intertwined destinies that spans two decades and traverses continents, capturing the essence of hope, love, and resilience. In this evocative novel, author J.T. Dodds, paints a vivid portrait of two individuals whose paths converge across two borders, against the backdrop of a changing world.
It all begins in January 1992, when two adventurous snowbirds from Winnipeg find themselves drawn to a picturesque village in Mexico. For Harriet, a retired librarian in search of her own Arcadia, the journey becomes a trans-formative experience, reigniting her sense of self and purpose. Her love for her garden, her casa, and the vibrant village life envelops her in a newfound joy.
Meanwhile, a young hombre named Jesus Ramos Rios embarks on a quest for the elusive American Dream. Leaves his village in Mexico where the water springs forth and as an illegal, navigates the challenges of life with help of familia from San Diego to the vineyards of Sonoma, and to his ultimate destination of Minneapolis, Minnesota, facing both triumphs and tribulations. Experiencing what Bruce Springsteen sang his Beautiful Dream, as the new millennium dawns, the political landscape shifts, and the plight of undocumented immigrants takes center stage. Jesus's dream morphs into a haunting nightmare as animosity and hostility intensify. With limited options, and the death of his wife Judith, he must make the heart-wrenching decision to return to his beloved pueblito in Mexico, accompanied by his ten-year-old daughter Zoey.
In this poignant and timely story, John delves deep into the human spirit, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring power of family. As the threads of Harriet and Jesus's lives intertwine, readers are swept along a poignant narrative that tugs at the heartstrings and sparks introspection.
Prepare to be captivated by this compelling tale that examines the complexities of migration, the bonds that transcend borders, and the indomitable spirit that emerges in the face of adversity. A masterful blend of literary craftsmanship and emotional depth, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and resonant exploration of the human experience.