Latest news with #Emilia
Geek Girl Authority
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Girl Authority
Book Review: JUST EMILIA
Thank you to Regal House Publishing for sending a copy of Just Emilia in exchange for an honest review. TW: ageism, alcohol/alcoholism, car accident, death of a parent, fatphobia, grief, sexual assault, suicidal thoughts. Three women are trapped in an elevator, but soon their confines become the least of their problems in Just Emilia . There's something connecting teenager Em, middle-aged Emilia, and elderly Millie, which goes beyond the obvious. Over the course of many hours, they attempt to unravel the truth behind their shared past trauma and decipher ways to make a difference in their lives. About Just Emilia by Jennifer Oko It's October 12 in Washington, DC. An ordinary day for many, but not for Emilia. Today is a struggle, and it's heightened by how fraught her relationship with her husband Joel has become. Surely, some retail therapy will lighten her mood. RELATED: New Release Radar: New Books Coming Out on May 27 While the shopping trip is fun, what follows for Emilia is decidedly not. She rushes to catch the elevator in the Friendship Heights Metro, only for it to abruptly shut down. Trapped in this cage, Emilia attempts to make conversation with her two companions. She's eventually able to coax them into conversation, which is when they learn the first of many oddities about their situation. All three of them are named Emilia, but they go by different iterations of the name. RELATED: Book Review: Shield of Sparrows Young Em is a troubled teen, combating suicidal thoughts, while Millie is in her seventies and devastated by the breakdown in her relationship with her daughter Sonya. Emilia's marriage is on the rocks, mainly because she's still haunted by the death of her mother, the famous local TV personality Sally Fletcher. As the three women reveal more about themselves, they figure out that they aren't three random Emilias coincidentally trapped in an elevator. They're the same Emilia, at different ages during her life. A Quick Read, But Not a Perfect One Just Emilia is a swift read, like a brisk walk down the DC streets that are vividly described in the book. Where it falls flat is in substance. We know more about the roads the three Emilias travel than the personal journeys they undertake. RELATED: Book Review: In the Garden of Monsters There's a lot of telling, not enough showing. We don't feel the grit and grime of a public elevator or the closed confines of the area they're stuck in. There's only one scene when the characters must, embarrassingly, deal with natural bodily functions. After that, it seems their bodies turn to stone. Are they hungry, dehydrated or frustrated? Author Jennifer Oko also gives little page time to Millie. Instead, there are far too many barbs directed at her appearance. Millie's choice to indulge in cosmetic surgery may be questionable, but Emilia and Em act like they've never seen an older woman before. Worse, they're disgusted by such a figure. People age. And Millie's only in her seventies. Speculative Fiction-Turned Therapy Session The central plot device in Oko's novel is the time-traveling elevator, but the heart of the story is grief, and the characters' complicated feelings around it. Grief doesn't just cast a pall on Emilia's life; it defines her. Even when she's convinced herself otherwise. RELATED: Book Review: When Among Crows Emilia's grief is complex – as grief tends to be – and has additional layers of guilt, which is complicated by her strained relationship with her mother. She's carrying a burden that no one else will accept or even listen to, which leads to Emilia being stuck in life. The only way to get unstuck is by being literally stuck in an elevator. While Oko deftly handles how grief doesn't have an expiry date, she does attempt to shoehorn an 'easy answer' to grief, which is not necessarily realistic. But Just Emilia could be a cathartic read for many dealing with their own grief surrounding a loved one. Just Emilia comes out on June 10 and is available to pre-order on Movie Review: THE UNINVITED Monita has been championing diversity, inclusivity, and representation in entertainment media through her work for over a decade. She is a contributor at Bam Smack Pow, and her bylines have appeared on 3-time Eisner Award-winning publication Women Write About Comics, Geek Girl Authority, HuffPost, (formerly Soundsphere/Screensphere, FanSided's Show Snob, and Vocal. She was also a TV/Movies features writer at Alongside her twin, Monita co-hosts the pop culture podcast Stereo Geeks.
West Australian
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- West Australian
The designer & artist behind Air New Zealand's new uniforms
Air New Zealand has turned to a local designer and artist for its new uniforms. Marking the airline's 85th year of flying to Australia, they pay homage to the Maori culture of New Zealand (Aotearoa). A spokesperson for the airline says: 'The collection embodies the airline's profound sense of pride in Aotearoa, and strong cultural heritage. The bold print, colour and exquisite design showcase the very best of Aotearoa to the world.' Designed by globally famous Emilia Wickstead, the fabrics have bespoke handpainted prints from Ta Moko artist Te Rangitu Netana. It's 14 years since there was a change of the uniforms worn by 6000 Air New Zealanders around the world. The spokesperson says: 'Our uniforms have always been a core part of Air New Zealand's identity. They're worn with immense pride.' For those who follow fashion, the collection is 'recognisably Emilia'. More than just uniforms, the collection embodies New Zealand-born Emilia Wickstead's aesthetic of sophistication and playfulness. And her work with Maori artist Te Rangitu Netana carries strong tradition. The Fine Print dress shows her craft, in using an intricate and meaningful print. The Collective Thread shirt is highly versatile. The Ie Faitaga being trialled by Pacific team members is a manifestation of a commitment to inclusivity. New designs for pilots include a bold pinstriped suit with a Kiwi feather lining. Emilia says it has been a passion project — one she has dreamed of working on. She explains: 'Designing the Air New Zealand uniform has been an incredibly personal project for me. At the heart of it was a deep respect for the heritage and the unique identity of New Zealand's people and land. It was essential to me that this uniform tells a meaningful story about Aotearoa. 'I wanted to create a uniform that empowers individuals and inspires pride in all who wear it and see it. For me, good design should always evoke a sense of pride and occasion, and I believe this uniform will do just that.' As part of this collaboration, Te Rangitu Netana's meticulously hand-drawn prints bring narratives to life. His work blends traditional tattooing with storytelling — perfect for fabric prints. Each print is hand-drawn by Te Rangitu, reflecting landscapes, wildlife and culture of Aotearoa. He explains: 'Each print is a story, deeply rooted in the traditions and values of Aotearoa. 'The patterns on this uniform are a reflection of the land, the sea, and the connections that bind us all as Kiwi. 'As a Maori artist on the world stage, I feel a deep responsibility in ensuring our culture is represented in a way that is authentic and meaningful. 'I'm proud that these designs have found a place in Air New Zealand's uniform, bringing te ao Maori to designs that show up all over the world.' + Patterns based on the feathers of the huia — an extinct species of New Zealand wattlebird, which was endemic to the North Island and last seen in 1907. + Some feature purapura whetu — a Maori phrase for 'star dust', referring to a simple, cross-stitch pattern used in tukutuku (weaving) art. + It includes the introduction of the ie faitaga — a long, rectangular cloth wrapped around the waist as a skirt or kilt. This is a traditional, formal 'lavalava'. + And there are Matariki constellation motifs. In Maori culture, Matariki is the Pleiades star cluster. The rising of this constellation in late June or early July marks the beginning of the Maori lunar calendar's new year. + The Fine Print A dress of high quality craftsmanship, with a tui knot neckline, And iconic kowhai print, inspired by Maori heritage and the story of Ngatoro-i-Rangi, symbolising protection, responsibility and belonging. There's the belief that Ngatoro-i-Rangi, who is honoured for his magical abilities and navigational skill, guided two tribes to the Taupo area in New Zealand. + The Collective Thread A versatile shirt, of inclusive design with bold prints and a tui knot neckline. It will be worn by any crew or ground staff member. + The Wrap Around A sleek trench coat created in 'suit style' violet pinstripe. The makers are proud of both its craftsmanship and comfort. + The Woven One This is a cultural garment — an Ie Faitaga. It is worn like a kilt and will be trialled by Pacific people. + The Runway Cut This waistcoat is for male crew members and ground staff cloaking, with the designer trying to give the wearer an aura of authority.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
W Sound, Beéle & Ovy on the Drums Score First No. 1 on Billboard Argentina Hot 100 With ‘La Plena (W Sound 05)'
W Sound, Beéle and Ovy on the Drums celebrate a new milestone on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100 chart, as 'La Plena (W Sound 05)' jumps 2-1 for its first week atop the ranking dated May 17. To date, Beéle has earned a total of three top 10s, while Ovy on the Drums has placed two. Meanwhile, W Sound — also known as Westcol — secured his first top 10 entry when the song climbed 14-8 in April. 'La Plena (W Sound 05)' dethrones Cazzu's 'Con Otra,' which dips 1-2, while Emilia, TINI and Nicki Nicole's 'Blackout' holds at No. 3 for a third week following its two-week coronation in April. Bad Bunny rebounds to No. 6 after sitting in the runner-up slot for two weeks in Puerto Rican singer Mattei earns his first top 10 with 'Pa' Las Girlas,' which surges from No. 26 to No. 9 in its third week on the tally. More from Billboard Ovy on the Drums on Colombian Stars, W Sound and Being the No. 1 Latin Producer on Spotify The Weeknd Says Tom Cruise 'Lip Sync Battle' Helped Him Score First Hot 100 No. 1 in 'Tonight Show' Preview Bad Bunny Reveals His Big Summer Plans in 'SNL' Promos: 'Doing Awesome Stuff' The week's Hot Shot Debut goes to Lali's 'Plástico,' with Duki, which starts at No. 25. The argentinian singer also debuts a second song from her album, No Vayas A Atender Cuando El Demonio Llama, as 'Lokura' arrives at No. 81. Four other cuts from the album chart this week, starting with 'Mejor Que Vos,' with Miranda!, at No. 14, '33,' with Dillom, which pushes 29-38, and 'No Me Importa' and 'Fanátco,' which re-enter at Nos. 75 and 90, respectively. Plus, 'Loco Un Poco,' with Turf, ascends 88-77, for Lali's seventh concurrent songs on the chart, the most this week. Yan Block & Panda Black's '444' takes the Greatest Gainer honor, awarded weekly to the song with the largest ascent among the 100 titles on the chart. The single climbs 21 spots, from No.100 to No.79, for its new peak. Two other songs debut on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100: Salastkabron's 'Tengo Una Cadena' at No. 26, while Young Miko's 'WASSUP' bows at No. 70. Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Four Decades of 'Madonna': A Look Back at the Queen of Pop's Debut Album on the Charts Chart Rewind: In 1990, Madonna Was in 'Vogue' Atop the Hot 100
The Star
11-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Isabel Allende's new novel binds threads of roots and destiny
A bloody civil war and the tragic death by suicide of an ousted president served as inspiration for Isabel Allende's new novel, My Name Is Emilia del Valle. The story centres on Emilia del Valle, a young Californian journalist who is dispatched to Chile to report on the confrontation between congressmen and those loyal to President Jose Manuel Balmaceda in 1891. 'I was always curious about that civil war,' Allende, 82, said in a video interview. 'More Chileans died there than in the four years of the war against Peru and Bolivia and they killed each other like beasts.' From her home in Belvedere, California, the Chilean-American writer said that Balmaceda's fate in Chile echoes that of her uncle, President Salvador Allende, in 1973; both were progressive leaders, faced fierce resistance from the right and Congress and died by suicide. Salvador Allende killed himself during Gen Augusto Pinochet's coup in 1973, which established a 17-year dictatorship and left more than 40,000 victims. To tell the story of Balmaceda in the book – available in English now – Allende was interested in a character who was neither a congressman nor a member of the government, so Emilia del Valle emerged, a curious and adventurous 25-year-old. Fluent in Spanish with Chilean roots from her biological father (born out of wedlock), Emilia travels to Chile to report on the war – but also to find her roots. 'Despite everything that happens to her, she falls in love with the country,' said Allende, who once again intertwines California and Chile in her narrative. 'It's very easy for me to write about Chile, even though I haven't lived there for so many years.' Allende's latest strong female protagonist is a journalist. Photo: AP On the battlefield, Emilia meets Angelita Ayalef, a Mapuche woman who is part of the so-called 'cantineras' (bartenders), women who followed the army to feed and cure soldiers, among other functions. 'When doing research for a book, what matters are the questions,' said Allende. 'Who were these women, the cantineras? History doesn't give them a voice, they don't have personality, there are no names, but they fulfilled a function equal to that of the soldier, and they died like soldiers.' 'Twice as much effort as any man' Growing up with an Irish Catholic mother and a stepfather of Mexican descent, Emilia is no stranger to religion and carries a Virgin of Guadalupe medal with her all the time. Emilia affectionately calls her stepfather Papo. 'It's a tribute to my own stepfather, I didn't know my father either, like Emilia, but I had a fantastic stepfather and so this is a tribute to him,' said Allende. With love but brutal honesty, Papo says to Emilia: 'Remember, princess, that you will have to make twice as much effort as any man to get half the recognition.' Being a woman, has Allende ever faced this? The author recalled sending her newly completed manuscript of The House Of The Spirits to Carmen Balcells, the renowned Barcelona literary agent who championed the so-called 'boom,' or new wave of Latin American writers of the 1960s and 1970s. Allende recalls Balcells' blunt assessment: ''This is a good novel, and I'll publish it, but that doesn't mean you're a writer. And as a woman, you're going to have to make twice as much effort as any man'. And that was the bible, because that has been my life, twice the effort to get respect, recognition for the work I do.' Balcells is present in another way in the novel as an inspiration for the character of Paulina del Valle, a successful, autonomous and brutally direct businesswoman who is the aunt of Emilia and introduces her to Chilean high society. Author Isabel Allende poses at her writing studio in Sausalito, California. Photo: AP Paulina also appears in Allende's Daughter Of Fortune (1999) and Portrait In Sepia (2000). 'When Carmen read the manuscripts (of those novels) she told me 'this is me!' she recognised herself immediately,' said Allende. Balcells passed away in 2015. Through Emilia's eyes, Allende immerses the reader in the brutal realities of the hand-to-hand war, the cannon fires and the repression against Balmaceda's followers. 'The battles of that time were hand-to-hand, face-to-face, but fewer people died than die now, because they were killed one by one, they were not killed en masse as they are killed now,' she said. 'Today, someone in Texas pushes a button and a bomb explodes in Iraq, and it doesn't matter how many people die, they are just numbers.' Allende dedicates the book to her brother Juan, who helped her with the historical research of the novel. Recovering the lost memory Although Allende is not religious, she lamented the death of Pope Francis, whom she described as a 'wonderful, simple, humble, intelligent man.' 'I adored him, not because he was pope, but because he went to revolutionise a church that was already completely old,' she said. She also mourned the death of Peruvian Nobel Prize winner Mario Vargas Llosa, whose passing sparked mixed reactions between those who celebrated him for his literary work and those who criticised his political positions, especially in his last years. 'The legacy is immortal, and I think that within literature he is a very important character,' said Allende. 'His political position, that is another story, but what remains is not his political position, what remains is the work.' Allende said that she has not seen the upcoming The House Of The Spirits Prime Video series so she said it will be a complete surprise for her. What she does know is that her next book will be another memoir, done with the help of the extensive collection of daily letters she sent daily to her mother since she turned 16. 'Writing a memoir is much harder than a novel,' she said. 'It turns out I have forgotten 90% of what has happened to me and the 10% that I remember did not happen like that. But then when I see the letters, day by day, I recover the lost memory and I recover the emotion of the moment.' Allende is grateful to be able to continue doing what she loves most: 'My head still works, as long as I can pay attention, remember, not repeat myself, I will be able to continue writing, but there will come a day when it will not be possible.' – AP
San Francisco Chronicle
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
Review: Isabel Allende's latest strong female protagonist is a S.F. journalist
Bestselling author Isabel Allende has been beloved for decades by millions of passionately loyal readers for her strong female protagonists and epic story lines stretching across the Americas. In novels such as 'The House of the Spirits,' 'Eva Luna,' and more recently, 'Violeta,' indomitable women take center stage and drive dramatic narratives conjured into being with a splash of magic realism by the writer who was born in Peru and raised in Chile. It's no different in Allende's latest book, 'My Name is Emilia del Valle,' which features an adventurous journalist in San Francisco during the late 1800s. Young Emilia is surprisingly intrepid for a female of her time, challenging and vaulting over gender barriers as she moves from writing cheap novels under a male pseudonym to pushing for her real byline — as a woman — to be published above her newspaper articles. Much of Emilia's intellectual curiosity and confidence comes from her stepfather, a Spanish speaking schoolteacher who marries her pregnant mother, a novice Catholic nun abandoned after a romance with a wealthy Chilean aristocrat. Although Allende initially sets her story in the United States, she gradually moves the action to Chile when Emilia persuades a newspaper editor to let her travel to the South American country to help cover Chile's civil war, emphasizing her Spanish language skills. She's dispatched along with fellow newspaper correspondent Eric Whelan, who will focus on the main news while she handles the features. Along with the professional challenge, Emilia wants to learn more about the father she has never known, and herself. Once in Chile, Emilia faces extreme dangers she has never imagined and questions where she came from and where she's going. It's a story likely to be appreciated by the legions of Allende fans who have ensured she's considered the world's most widely read Spanish-language author. Although the Chilean American novelist is fluent in English, and has long lived in Marin County, she writes in her native Spanish and her books are translated. The recipient of Chile's National Literature Prize in 2010, Allende is considered an American literary treasure as well. She was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 2004 and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2014. Allende previous novel, 'The Wind Knows My Name,' published in 2023, was a departure from her familiar tales featuring strong women. In that book, she braided the stories of two young children traveling alone in different times and places — one during the brewing Holocaust in Europe and the other in modern day Arizona on the border with Mexico. But all of Allende's books, 'My Name is Emilia del Valle' included, have the epic feel of a major Hollywood film, the kind of production that everyone will tell you must be seen on the big screen to be truly appreciated. Reading the book, you can almost see young Emilia on the steamboat headed south to Chile, the land at the foot of the volcanos that holds her roots, and her destiny.
