Project Status

I have completed the draft, so now have to time to update my blog! It has been over a year since I returned from my 7 week stay with the Achuar. I have been writing every since. The project that I have been working on since 2008 is a book about the Achuar culture. During my visit, I interviewed and observed and wrote and experienced all that I could relating the the Achuar. My Achuar friends allowed me to come into their world, opening their homes and hearts to me. The intent of this book, sanctioned by the tribe, is to provide tourists visiting Kapawi with an overview of the Achuar culture. It is hoped that those visiting the Achuar will carry back with them an appreciation and better understanding of the Achuar way of life. Further, this book will serve as a resource for volunteers and Ecuadorian naturalists working with the Achuar, and may even be used in the Achuar community schools. Additionally, all of the revenue generated by this book will go directly to the Achuar. This resource will help the Achuar bring English teachers into their communities.
So, with that introduction, what does it take to write a book of this kind? First is perseverance. I spent almost 2 years trying to find someone interested in my idea to write a book about the Achuar. That someone was on staff at Kapawi headquarters in Quito. My contact was Pedro Armendáriz. I was asked to submit a proposal. After the proposal was accepted, I started doing book research and planning my on-site research.

I will start the next post there.

Coming to an end...

Here it is July. I have been writing nearly every day since I returned from Kapawi. I did have a week of travel recovery and a bit of jungle fungi to combat... And a few breaks with family along the way. But other than that, I have worked on the book like it was an 8 to five job. And it was! I completed the draft of the book yesterday!!! Every time I re-read it, I tweak it a bit. I think it is time to stop! I am sure it has some editing corrections to be made, and I have several very capable people to help with that. I have also sorted photos to include. As I look at the photos, they bring back fond memories and make be lonesome for the Achuar people. Especially the friends I made while staying at the lodge. They are very special. I do want to go back, but since this has been a volunteer effort, I have a lot of saving up to do before I can make that trip again! The book will be available from the Achuar at Kapawi. When it is ready for print, I will post how you can get a copy! All proceeds will go the the Achuar. They are struggling to keep their land and their culture. Revenue from the book will help them greatly.