Poetry. Latinx Studies. Set along the U.S.-Mexican border, CEREMONY OF SAND is an examination of hiddenness, of those things the borderlands want kept secret, of the banal violence that is both internally created and forced upon it. The collection exposes the futility of naming the borderlands as one particular type of place and tackles the complexity of its inhabitants, their contradictions, their language, and their failures. In poems both fatalistic and deeply hopeful, CEREMONY OF SAND serves as witness as it also addresses the complexity of developing a language of unique personhood while living inside a culture that expects recapitulation of its own aesthetics and beliefs.

This easy-to-read book is a unique source of both inspiration and practical advice to help couples, celebrants, and clergy to create a Unity Candle or Sand Ceremony that meets their individual needs and be confident that not only will the ritual flow smoothly on the day but the photographs will be wonderful. It takes a fresh look at both rituals, challenges readers to consider what the ritual symbolizes for them personal, presents creative alternatives, and guides the reader through the process of developing a unique and personal version of each ceremony, and choosing or creating the items you will need to carry out the ritual.Using the tools and examples provided you will be able to develop a ritual that brings together all three of the critical elements required to create a truly amazing wedding or commitment ceremony: words that convey layers of meaning and the depth of the couple's love for each other, music to stir the emotions; and the visual element, what the guests see unfolding before them, to express feelings that go beyond words.

Bring your dream wedding to life with Wedding Ceremony Planner: The Essential Guide to the Most Important Part of Your Wedding Day. This comprehensive guide offers invaluable insights and practical advice to help you plan a memorable and meaningful wedding ceremony. Beyond logistical details of selecting your venue and coordinating a seamless procession, the guide also focuses on crafting a ceremony that reflects your unique love story. It offers tips for personalizing your ceremony and includes a diverse collection of readings and rituals from various cultures and religious traditions. Whether you're planning a traditional wedding or a non-conformist ceremony, Wedding Ceremony Planner is your indispensable companion.

'An exceptional novel ... a cause for celebration' Washington Post 'The most accomplished Native American writer of her generation' The New York Times Book Review Tayo, a young Second World War veteran of mixed ancestry, is coming home. But, returning to the Laguna Pueblo Reservation, he finds himself scarred by his experiences as a prisoner of war, and further wounded by the rejection he finds among his own people. Only by rediscovering the traditions, stories and ceremonies of his ancestors can he start to heal, and find peace. 'Ceremony is the greatest novel in Native American literature. It is one of the greatest novels of any time and place' Sherman Alexie

Previous ed. entitled: Offbeat bride: taffeta-free alternatives for independent brides, 2007.