Meet Crystal Reyes | Writer & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Reyes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Crystal, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Writing has surged through me since I can remember. While Spanish was my first-language, I had my fair share of struggles in reading and writing; including pronunciation, limited vocabulary, and accessibility to reading, I began to frequent my local library and learn as much as I could because it was all I could do to better myself. It wasn’t until my teen years that I dabbled in creative writing; in turn, I won various awards for these pieces. Whether I am writing personal essays, poetry, or raunchy erotica stories; writing is cathartic in nature. When I write, I let-go of all expectations, and with this, I am inclined to bare myself completely in my work. After all, how else can others understand you for who & what you are?

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As of now, I am immensely proud of the writing projects that have come to fruition over the past couple of years. Mainly, my debut collection of poetry, “Wildflower Blooming” which has been in the top 10 of Hispanic American Books on Amazon for almost a month. It goes without saying but: obedience, determination, manifestation, and the guidance of God have led me to where I am today. Whatever imprint you hope to leave in this world do it sooner rather than later because time is of the essence.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Ahhh! I always love going to new food places because #Foodie; however, one can never go wrong with the following one-stop-shops:

-La Chupería- The Miche Shop (pretty delicious micheladas & bites)
-Pot of Cha (who doesn’t love boba?)
-Cafe Dulce (some of the best pastries!)
-Pasta Roma (decadent pasta)

I spend a lot of time around the USC campus because of teaching or writing retreats, and these are places I never get tired of dining in at.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Firstly, I want to dedicate my shoutout to the, “Community Literature Initiative” a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching BIPOC writers how to write and publish. This program was the same program I went through for my poetry book; in addition to, having the lovely pleasure of being a teaching assistant this past year with a new chapter of writers & creatives. Lastly, a major shoutout to Hiram Sims, the captain, of this beautiful writing community and association.

Website: https://crysreyes09.wixsite.com/my-site

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crisreyeswrites

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-reyes-m-a-950320203/

Other: https://a.co/d/i4TITrD

Image Credits
Ángel Carrasquillo