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Acclaimed local author speaks at library

CARLSBAD — Local author Victor Villaseñor attracted a crowd of loyal readers for a free discussion and signing of his latest book, “Beyond Rain of Gold,” at Carlsbad’s Dove Library on March 31.
Hundreds of North County residents were in attendance to hear Villaseñor delve into stories about his childhood, his family and Mexican culture at the event, which was held at the Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium, 1775 Dove Lane.
“All of my writing is about how you don’t fall apart when the going gets tough,” Villaseñor said. “This book is an odyssey where I’m educated about my own writing.”
Villaseñor’s newest book documents his spiritual journey to communicate with ancestors, ensuring that he could document his family’s history as accurately as possible, he said.
“’Beyond Rain of Gold’ is the key to understanding all of my other work,” Villaseñor said.
Carlsbad-based Hay House Publishing released the book, and was the only company that agreed to publish Villaseñor’s most recent work without any edits to his journey, he said.
“Beyond Rain of Gold” is the latest release in a series of books that have detailed Villaseñor’s family history, starting with his family’s roots in Mexico to his upbringing in North County, all the way through his adult life.
Villaseñor’s works often focus on central themes, including family bonds, Mexican culture and the pride he has found in his Mexican heritage.
“I wanted to bring them to hear from someone that is a proud Mexican,” Rancho Penasquitos resident Rosa Salgado said of her daughters Areli, 7, and Itzel, 12. “Villaseñor’s stories are very understandable and there are a lot of points in his work that they can relate to.”
Audience members were encouraged to ask questions of the author, who was happy to answer and inspire his fans. Many attendees were hearing Villaseñor speak for the second and third times and brought copies of his books to be signed.
“It’s a great opportunity to meet an author you admire and be able to share your thoughts on their work,” Carlsbad’s Community Relations Manager Jessica Padilla Bowen said. “We’re fortunate to have such talent right here in our community.”
In addition to writing, Villaseñor also tours the country as a public speaker and has appeared at Carlsbad’s libraries in the past, following the release of his book, “Crazy Loco Love,” Padilla Bowen said.
Several selections from Villaseñor’s collection of books are available at Carlsbad’s library branches. For more information about the author, visit victorvillasenor.com.