

Brené with Gabby Rivera on Superheroes, Storytelling and Joy as Resistance
Nov 11, 2020
Gabby Rivera, a Bronx-born writer and the first Latina to write for Marvel Comics, explores the power of storytelling and representation. She discusses her groundbreaking work on America Chavez and her debut novel, Juliet Takes a Breath, emphasizing the importance of seeing diverse identities in the hero's journey. Topics include joy as a form of resistance against trauma, the portrayal of strong female characters, and how personal heritage influences creativity. They also celebrate the flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine and the role of joy in healing.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Food as Cultural Connection
- Food connects Gabby Rivera to her Puerto Rican heritage and family stories.
- Making traditional dishes like pasteles creates shared culture and ancestral bonds.
Roxane Gay's Powerful Support
- Roxane Gay unexpectedly supported Gabby Rivera after receiving her book.
- That encouragement propelled Gabby's literary career forward.
Juliet Takes a Breath Autobiography
- Juliet Takes a Breath is largely autobiographical, blending Gabby's personal experiences.
- The novel offers queer Latinx youth permission to embrace all parts of themselves.