Under the Zaboca Tree
Interview with the author – Glynis Guevara
We came across a new Caribbean novel for young people, “Under the Zaboca Tree” and decided to reach out to the Trinidad-born author Glynis Guevara to ask her some questions about her novel.
1. What gave you the inspiration to write your book?
I started writing seriously after I suddenly found myself unemployed. I had a lot of time on my hands, and instead of feeling sorry for myself I began to write. I have more stories in my head than time to write. All I need to do is to sit in front of my computer and the words flow.
2. How long did you live in Trinidad?
I worked at the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission for three years before leaving Trinidad in my twenties to study law in London, England. I left the United Kingdom four years later, after completing my bar exams. I resided in Trinidad for about four years more years before moving to North America.
3. What was your experience growing up in Trinidad?
The best part about growing up in Trinidad was having good parents who were always supportive of me. As a kid, I grew up in San Juan and the people in the village were always helpful to each other. Life then was much peaceful than now. I miss the good old days.
4. Where are you living now and what are some of the key differences between living in Canada and living in Trinidad?
I live in Ontario, Canada. The main difference between Canada and Trinidad is the weather. Canada offers a lot more opportunities for young people than Trinidad, but Trinidad is where family is; it will always be home.
“Under the Zaboca Tree” is a contemporary coming of age novel that explores numerous issues including the challenges of being a motherless adolescent, the search for one’s identity, the unbreakable bonds of family and the ability to adapt to difficult situations.
6. I understand this is targeted to young people from 12-20? Why would they enjoy this book?
Young people love to read books about characters their own age. This story, written in the first person, is told through the eyes of a young adolescent and embraces issues that teens can relate.
7. Is there anything else you wish to share with our readers?
I wrote the type of book I longed to read as a teen. Children in the Caribbean need to be exposed to more books through which they can see themselves. I believe “Under the Zaboca” is one of those books. The novel can be purchased at Amazon
