Page 16 - Reader's House Magazine

Beyond Borders - Gelya’s Path from Kyzylkum* to Award-Winning Author
LARA GELYA
A Life Shaped by Gladiolus Hues and Literary Legends
Author Lara Gelya, a literary voyager whose narratives reflect a kaleidoscope of life experiences, surrounded by the vivid hues Ireminiscent of the gladiolus blooms that colored her childhood memories.
n the colourful tapestry of the expanse of the Kyzylkum Desert in literary world, certain authors Uzbekistan before finding a home bring unique hues that stem in the United States. Her narrative, from their extraordinary a testament to perseverance and
her early love affair with books, paying homage to Russian literary giants like Pasternak and Chekhov, alongside American luminaries such as Hemingway and Poe.
Her journey into the English lan- guage mirrors a symphony, where the melody gradually unfolds over a decade, allowing her to discern the nuanced cadences that echo th- rough different narratives. Gelya’s penchant for historical fiction and classics, coupled with her appre- ciation for memoirs and personal development books, sheds light on the diverse reservoir of inspiration that fuels her creativity.
Amidst the interview’s pages, Lara invites readers into cherished memories of her childhood, where the hues of gladiolus blossoms and the impactful narratives of early readings left indelible imprints on her soul. Her narrative encapsula-
tes not just a literary journey, but a tapestry woven with sensitivity, trustworthiness, and an unyielding commitment to integrity—traits rooted in her character from the very beginning.
As Gelya candidly shares her challenges in penning her memoir in a language acquired later in
life, she exemplifies the essence of perseverance and dedication that defines her work. Her admiration for fictional characters, particularly Claire Randall from “Outlander,” offers a glimpse into her appre- ciation for resilient, independent spirits who refuse to be confined by societal norms.
In Lara Gelya’s narrative, readers will discover more than an aut- hor—they will encounter a story- teller whose life experiences serve as both ink and parchment, etching tales of resilience, transformation, and a deep love for the written
life experiences. Lara Gelya, an reinvention, echoes the spirit of
award-winning author, carries a narrative as vibrant as the myriad shades of the gladiolus flow-
ers she fondly recalls from her childhood in Ukraine. Her journey spans continents, professions,
exploration ingrained in her th- rough years spent amid geological expeditions and diverse cultural landscapes.
The beauty of Lara’s literary odyssey lies not only in her award-winning book, “Camel from Kyzylkum,” but in the rich tapestry of influences that shaped her as both a person and a writer. In her conversation with The Reader’s House, Lara delves into
and languages, weaving a tale that resonates with resilience, curiosity, and an unwavering love for storytelling.
Born amidst the landscapes of Ukraine, Lara’s life traversed the
16 II Reader’s House
T