A Conversation with Ana Maria Luisa

From Rural Resilience to Urban Triumph: Ana Maria Luisa Unveils ‘Mother of Honey’

Ana Maria Luisa wears multiple hats as a psychotherapist, climate activist, and soon-to-be author of the eco-novel “Seven Magpies Falling Dead from the Skies.” Driven by a profound interest in family narratives, transformative journeys, interpersonal dynamics, and the human experience, her forthcoming book is poised to engage a diverse audience intrigued by these themes.

Drawing on her background in psychology, Ana Maria Luisa has delved into her own ancestral traumas, discovering the therapeutic potential inherent in the act of writing. In a recent interview, we had the opportunity to sit down with her and gain insights into her perspectives.

1. What was the inspiration for the story?

In 2015 I received the news I always dreaded living in England nine thousand miles away from my mother in Sao Paulo.  After a cruel stroke that took away her contagious zest for life, I had to put her in a home and fly back to England. Bereft, I was struggling to cope. It was during that time that my children, nephews, and nieces developed a ferocious hunger for our family stories.  As the guardian of the stories, I started to write them. Until I was prompted to share, the stories that live inside of my head were simply part of the tapestry of my family history. However, my mother’s inevitable departure created within my core an almost uncontrollable need to remember her colorful and corageous life. This mother whom I loved, who fought so many battles for me and with me was far too significant to simply disapper. She was a world, a universe, a giver of life – the one who nurtured my life.  How could I allow her to disappear altogether?

2. What is the key theme and/or message in the book ‘The Mother of Honey’?

The Mother of Honey is a moving tribute to the resilience of the female spirit. It explores the impacts of ancestry on our lives and those of our loved ones, and how we can find the strength to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

3. What do you hope your readers take away from this book?

Inspiration to face their own challenges, losses with as much grace and wisdom as possible.

4. What is the significance of the title?

My mother was called Iracy – a native Brazilian name from the indigenous Tupi Guarani tribe, derived from elements of Yira meaning honey and su or si meaning mother – Iracy, The Mother of Honey – Mae do Mel.

5. How long have you been writing?

Ever since I can remember. Writing is my most effective therapeutical tool.

6. Have you always wanted to be a writer?

No. At 15 my dream was to be a special needs teacher.

7. What is your favorite part of being a writer?

How it always helps me make sense of my internal chaos and the ever changing world we live in. I find it very healing.

8. Can you describe your writing space?

Peaceful, cozy, my sacred space

9. What book/s are you reading at present?

I have just finished ‘Just Saying’ by Malorie Blackman and started ‘The Prophet Song’ by Paul Lynch. I keep the teachings of Tao Te Ching Lao Tzu and Kahlil Gibran’s Prophet by my bedside for ongoing inspiration.

10. What is the first book that made you cry?

So many books have made me cry😊 But the very first book, I was about 11. I read it in Portuguese, and it told a story of a tropical fish, a tropical bird and a snake that left their natural habitats to become pets. It showed the disregard humans have for all other life forms.  Needless to say, that the tropical fish who left a beautiful lake, died in his own filth in a tiny fishbowl.  The colorful bird died of sadness in a cage, the snake was deemed dangerous and was killed.  It was a very philosophical book exploring the dark side of human nature. I cried inconsolably for days.

11. What’s your favorite food?

Rice Beans Greens with a fried egg on top

12. What is the best part of your day?

Mid morning until I go to bed.

13. What do you like to do when you are not writing?

I love my job as a psychotherapist.  I love singing and playing my guitar. I love being with my loved ones and treasured friends.

14. Favorite artist and favorite song?

Impossible question as I am bi cultural.  Beatles, Joni Mitchel, Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Carole King, Adele, The Cure.  Help, Imagine, So far Away… I could go on.

15. Which social media platform you use often?

I am terrible at social media.  But would say I am familiar with Facebook.

Ana Maria Luisa’s first book ‘The Mother of Honey‘ is now out on Amazon.