“A refreshingly unconventional poetry collection that blurs the boundaries between travel writing and poetic experimentation… The poems do not simply describe travel, they recreate the experience of movement, reflection, and discovery. There is also a quiet playfulness throughout the collection. The ‘botched’ nature of the haikus becomes a strength rather than a flaw, reinforcing the theme of getting lost, both geographically and creatively.”

— Graeme Williams · Goodreads

“A collection of haikus to take your time through and really absorb the soul that translates through the diction… There is a haiku here for every poet enthusiast and those who appreciate this type of literary art. Deconstruct your mind with poetry reflecting on a journey across the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Each poem delivers something raw that will take a moment to pause and reflect.”

— Mariah · Goodreads

“This book is funny, poignant, and vividly wrought, pulling the reader into Lucero’s life at his family’s restaurant. Even if you’ve never been to this legendary Austin establishment, you’ll feel as if you’re a regular by the end of the book.”

— Caitlin Palmer · Goodreads

“A love letter to family, food, and the chaos of running a restaurant… a little spicy, a little sweet, and full of heart. No long-winded chapters, no filler — just sharp, engaging moments that pack a punch, perfect for readers who prefer their stories satisfying but never overwhelming.”

— dani B) · Goodreads

“His real and honest stories mixed with a good sense of humor convey in a special way the lives of everyday people in the work of a family-owned restaurant. It truly must have been a special place where people from very different backgrounds found themselves sharing the gift of great food and company.”

— Amy Salinas · Goodreads

“This book of personal essays hit me in my funny bone and my cry bone! Julio Lucero’s stories of growing up in a local cafe resonated with me — it’s so fun to place the action in times and places I’ve been and frequently visit. I’m so happy he sat down and wrote these stories!”

— Abby Strite · Goodreads

“A warm, sensory-rich collection of autobiographical stories set against the vibrant backdrop of a family-run Mexican restaurant. Food becomes more than sustenance; it is language, memory, identity, and connection. This memoir will resonate strongly with readers of culinary memoirs, multicultural family narratives, and anyone who has experienced the intensity and intimacy of working alongside loved ones.”

— Elena Jones · Goodreads