Alma Velasco, the writer of the sonic universe, passes away

Alma Velasco, a distinguished Mexican writer, poet, and academic, passed away early this morning, her partner Eduardo Casar González announced via Facebook. Velasco, who was 77, was celebrated for her unique ability to weave literary creation with musical and cultural outreach, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Casar González shared the news of her passing, noting that a paperback edition of her 12-year-old novel, "Me llaman la Tequilera," had recently been released. He expressed his intention to re-edit her children's poetry books. IBBY Mexico also paid tribute to Velasco, remembering her as a "teacher, friend, and generous accomplice" whose "sonic universe will continue to accompany us every day."

Velasco, born in Mexico City on September 7, 1948, was also a singer, researcher, and translator. Her literary production often engaged with the nuances of Mexican popular culture, drawing from musical memory, narrative biography, and poetry. Her novel "Me llaman la Tequilera" (2012) critically reconstructed the life of Lucha Reyes, a pioneer of ranchera music, highlighting her mythical status.

Her contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the National Translation Award for Poetry from INBAL in 1995 for her Spanish translation of Ferreira Gullar's work. In 1998, she received the Gabino Barreda Medal for Academic Merit from UNAM, and in 2002, she was awarded the National Poetry Prize for Children "Narciso Mendoza." Her work consistently balanced rigorous research with lyrical dissemination, earning her respect in both academic and cultural spheres.

“

Les comunico que ayer en la madrugada se murió mi esposa ALMA VELASCO. Acaba de salir la edición de bolsillo de su novela publicada hace 12 años "Me llaman la Tequilera", en random house. Hay que leerla y trataré de reeditar sus libros de poemas para niños. No habrá velorio. Gracias a todos