The Evolution of Chente Jimenez
I think it’s important to have a role model when growing up, someone to look up to and someone who inspires. I think young people can thrive when they have an outstanding example to follow. So, when I began outlining the Valiente Series, I was certain I wanted my writing to include three things.
First, I wanted the books to represent the Latino culture through a strong familial setting. I wanted to write about the dynamics of a Latino family – a family who fights hard, but loves harder.
I also wanted the series to highlight the different journeys individuals take as they learn to embrace their sexuality. I wanted to depict the conflict and inner struggles some people encounter at different stages in their life. How the “coming out” process is personal and unique to every individual.
And most importantly, I wanted a confident and positive role model for all young people, an identifiable character that readers could champion. I envisioned a protagonist that would transcend the barriers of sexual orientation and stereotypes.
As I began to create the character Chente Jimenez, it was very important that he be a real young man who had the ability to be vulnerable and brave at the same time. I wanted Chente to be a typical teenager with normal insecurities and who was driven by his fears. His intrinsic desire to live an authentic life and his need for unconditional love and acceptance turns out to be his greatest strength and also his biggest fear.
Chente Jimenez is a fictional character but he is also bits and pieces of my brothers, former students, and myself. Chente Jimenez is humble and bold, fearless and timid, intelligent and impulsive, diverse and universal. He is the boy next door, the athlete on the basketball court or a member of your family.
Like most protagonists, Chente Jimenez is beautifully complicated.
Chente Jimenez is not perfect. He makes many impulsive mistakes, but his intentions are always honorable. My goal was to have the reading audience witness his evolution from a precarious young man at the start of the series, to a confident young man at the end. #TeamChente
I like this dude Chente Jimenez, I’d like to meet him and be part of his circle of friends. Although he is fictional, the author brings him to life in such a realistic way that the reader is able to see him in fond memories and in daily encounters. This guy is so much more than his sexuality, he is a doting son, a soft-hearted brother, a faithful friend, a diligent student, a fearless warrior who seeks the best in others and harnesses his spiritual faith. Young or old we need courageous role models to inspire and breathe life into our daily routines. Chente Jimenez leaves his heart on the pages of The Valiente Series for all to draw from his wholesome fabric of life. The author does exceptionally well in creating a realistic side to Chente Jimenez, making it simple for the reader to slip into his world and experience his life. A huge Thank You to the author for all the smiles and different emotions this reader experiences while reading The Valiente Series.