Bonus Episode: The Grand Paloma Resort ft. Cleyvis Natera

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers welcomes author Cleyvis Natera for a thoughtful conversation about her novel The Grand Paloma Resort and the larger forces shaping books and culture today.In this episode, Cleyvis discusses the role of mass market paperbacks in making literature more accessible, along with themes of tourism, classism, and power woven throughout her novel. The conversation explores complex character development, the influence of television and pop culture on storytelling, and how societal desensitization, politics, and the pandemic shape both fiction and real life.Cleyvis also shares her personal journey balancing writing, teaching, and family, emphasizing the importance of community, reader support, and intentional engagement with literature. The episode wraps with book recommendations, reflections on relationships, and excitement for upcoming literary releases.✨ Perfect for readers, book lovers, and anyone interested in thoughtful conversations about literature, culture, and society.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction to the Grand Paloma Resort and Author's Journey03:12 The Impact of Mass Market Paperbacks on Accessibility06:19 The Role of Tourism in the Caribbean and Local Labor12:20 Inspiration Behind the Grand Paloma Resort18:10 Exploring Classism and Capitalism in Tourism24:07 Character Development and Reader Engagement in Fiction25:30 Character Complexity and Empathy26:55 Isolation and Power Dynamics in Corporate America31:05 Balancing Life: Writing, Family, and Career43:56 Exploring Ambition and Gender Dynamics in Fiction49:24 The End of Civility50:03 Impact of the Pandemic on Society51:59 Complicity in Community Issues53:07 Cultural Identity and Political Choices55:08 Understanding Apathy and Complicity01:00:20 The Role of Activism and Responsibility01:03:23 Reflections on Leadership and Expectations💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer📧Email Us: [email protected]📱Follow us on socials:IG&Threads: @theleagueofreadersShelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonaeJess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 📚 Books & Topics Mentioned:The Farming of BonesThe Grand Paloma ResortA Small PlaceWhat Storm, What Thunder🪩 Church Announcements:#TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews