Yecapixtla, Morelos, is renowned for its cecina, a type of salted and dried beef. The article describes the traditional preparation methods and the cultural significance of cecina in the region. Pablo Ríos, a local expert, shares the importance of climate and geography in the drying process and the artisanal techniques passed down through generations. The town's history is intertwined with the cecina trade, which has become a key part of its gastronomic heritage. The article also touches on the contributions of other local producers, such as cheese maker Juan Torres and ice cream vendor Reina Bobadilla, and the town's historical significance dating back to its conquest by Gonzalo Sandoval in 1521. Despite challenges, including a failed attempt to become a 'pueblo mágico' and instances of violence, Yecapixtla's charm and cultural richness continue to attract visitors and preserve its unique identity.

Laura Olmos reviews 'The World Outside' by Jorge Franco, a novel that intertwines two worlds in 1970s Medellín: poverty and aristocracy. The story begins with the kidnapping of Diego Echavarría Misas near his residence 'El Castillo' and explores themes of captivity and freedom, desires, and reality through a suspenseful narrative. Characters like Isolda, El Mono, Diego, Dita, and others reveal the contrasts between the protected life within 'El Castillo' and the outside world. The novel, which won the Alfaguara Novel Prize in 2014, is based on a real kidnapping that occurred in Medellín in the 1970s with a tragic outcome. Franco, known for his other works and contributions to literature, was also invited by Gabriel García Márquez to co-lead a storytelling workshop in Cuba.

Laura Olmos reviews 'The Lineage of Silence' by Sandra Lorenzano, a novel that portrays violence against women through the intertwining stories of Hollywood actress Rita Hayworth and two Parisian girls, Anette and Claire, who suffer exploitation and abuse. The book delves into themes of memory, identity, and the historical and ongoing violence women face. Lorenzano, who has lived in Mexico since 1976, reflects on her creative process and the importance of memory in her work, revealing her personal connection to the stories she writes.

Laura Olmos reviews 'With You in the Distance' by Carla Guelfenbein, a novel that revolves around the life of Vera Sigall, a renowned Chilean writer, and her intricate relationships with other characters such as the emerging poet Horacio Infante, Daniel, and Emilia. The narrative explores themes of intrigue, passion, lies, envy, love, and frustration, set against the backdrop of literature. The novel, inspired by Brazilian writer Clarice Lispector and Guelfenbein's Ukrainian great-grandmother, also touches on migration and the author's own exile to England after Pinochet's military coup. Guelfenbein won the prestigious Alfaguara Prize in 2015 for this work, which has sparked controversy over its perceived quality relative to the award's significance.

José Ignacio Valenzuela, a Chilean writer with over 15 books published and recognized as one of the top Latin American writers under 40 by About.com in 2012, is the author of 'Mi abuela, la loca', a book that transcends its classification as children's literature to touch readers of all ages. The book, which holds a special place in Valenzuela's heart, is inspired by his own grandmother, Violeta, and tells the story of an eccentric grandmother named Petunia and her grandson Vicente, who develop a deep bond through poetry and wordplay. The narrative explores themes of perception, reality, and the genuine connection between family members.

Laura Olmos discusses Andrés Calamaro's semi-autobiographical book 'Paracaídas y Vueltas,' which includes fiction, essays, reviews, opinion columns, chronicles, unpublished lyrics, and thoughts. The book traverses Calamaro's musical journey, his experiences in Argentina and Spain, and his views on various subjects including former presidents and bullfighting. Calamaro, a key figure in Argentine rock, shares his deep feelings about music, particularly rock, and pays tribute to influential figures like Gustavo Cerati and Pappo. The book is illustrated with personal images and Calamaro invites musicians and readers alike to engage with his work.

Laura Olmos reviews 'Retrofilia,' a book by José Luis Guzmán 'Miyagi' that spans five decades of political, cultural, and musical history. Guzmán, known for his raspy voice on the radio, offers a narrative that intertwines his personal experiences with broader historical events. The book delves into various topics, including politics, history, culture, society, technology, philosophy, literature, cinema, and music, reflecting on Mexico's political life with humor and critical insight. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the past to comprehend the present, with music playing a significant role in shaping cultural context.