Aztlan Books Y Mas is the brain child of Marilu and Tony Rodriguez. This is a family run business centered on both the educational and real world experiences of the Latin American culture they have encountered. Being a mix of Cuban/Mexican, Marilu graduated from Cal State Northridge with a degree in Chicano Studies. It is here that her mind was exposed to many of the great authors and products they offer. She went on to the University of New Mexico where she earned her Master’s in Elementary Education. She has been in the classroom for over ten years and is currently teaching Spanish to kindergartners in Henderson, Nevada. It was here that her on-going search for authentic, culturally relevant literature for her students began and was not satiated with what the mainstream bookstores in Southern Nevada had to offer.
After much thought, planning, and business related research conducted by Tony, so came about the first Latin American themed bookstore in Las Vegas. Their location, close to downtown, has to offer books in English, Spanish, and bilingual editions by Chicano/a and Latin American writers for adults, young adults, and children. The “Más” in the shop’s name refers to post cards, hand bags, teacher resources, music, art, jewelry, candles, and other trinkets. The store strives to provide that which educates, enlightens, or just satisfies any need for Latin American literature and goods. Since their opening in August of 2006, they have had three author events, a book club which meets regularly, one poetry night, an artist reception/exhibition, and several children craft events.
Aztlan Books Y Mas extends an invitation to all interested authors that when in Vegas, consider doing a reading in their space and treating la gente of Sin City with a gift of your palabras.
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