Picture a queer Latinx poet and novelist weaving tales of diaspora and belonging from the heart of Edinburgh—meet Andrés N. Ordorica! This rising literary star has captivated readers with his lyrical prose and poignant explorations of identity, earning him a spot as one of The Observer’s 10 Best Debut Novelists in 2024. His work, rooted in his family’s Mexican-American immigrant history, resonates with anyone who’s ever felt caught between worlds.
The Making of Andrés N. Ordorica
Born to a Mexican-American family with a military background, Ordorica’s childhood was a whirlwind of movement, shifting every few years across countries like Turkey and the United States. This transient life sparked his obsession with capturing memories through writing, starting with an attempted autobiography at age 12 on a second-hand computer. His path led him to Ithaca College for Drama and English, followed by an MA in Writing for Stage at The Royal Central School of Speech & Drama in London. Initially a playwright, Ordorica found his true calling in poetry and prose, using words to navigate the liminality of his queer, Latinx identity.
Andrés N. Ordorica’s Unforgettable Stories
Ordorica’s debut poetry collection, At Least This I Know, published in 2022, is a vibrant tapestry of ancestry, queerness, and nationhood. Structured like a memoir, it blends English, Spanish, and Scots to reflect his multifaceted identity, earning shortlists for the Morley Prize and Saltire Society’s Poetry Book of the Year. His debut novel, How We Named the Stars (2024), is a tender coming-of-age story set between the U.S. and México. It follows Daniel de La Luna, a first-generation college student, as he navigates love, loss, and his Mexican heritage. Critics have praised its luxuriant prose and emotional depth, with The New York Times calling it a “touching story about a transformative queer romance.”
His latest poetry collection, Holy Boys, dives into masculinity, faith, and unspoken desires, using multilingual poetry to excavate the self. Ordorica’s style is lyrical yet raw, blending vivid imagery with vulnerable storytelling. His works tackle themes of “ni de aquí, ni de allá” (neither here, nor there), making them a beacon for those grappling with belonging.
Why Andrés N. Ordorica Matters
Ordorica’s impact lies in his ability to give voice to the marginalized, particularly queer Latinx communities. His stories bridge cultural divides, offering a nuanced look at the diaspora experience. As a trustee for Artlink Edinburgh, he advocates for creative access for underserved groups, amplifying his influence beyond the page. His recognition by The Observer underscores his role as a fresh, vital voice in contemporary literature, inspiring readers to embrace their own complex identities.
- Birthplace: United States, Mexican-American heritage
- Key Works: At Least This I Know, How We Named the Stars, Holy Boys
- Awards: Shortlisted for Kavya Prize, Morley Lit Prize, Mo Siewcharran Prize; The Observer’s 10 Best Debut Novelists (2024)
Ready to get lost in a world of poetic prose and heartfelt stories? Snag How We Named the Stars and dive into Andrés N. Ordorica’s unforgettable universe!