Orlando Ortega-Medina was born in Los Angeles to Cuban immigrants. He studied English Literature at UCLA and holds a Juris Doctor from Southwestern University School of Law. Ortega-Medina is the author of four novels and a short story collection. His novel, The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants, was shortlisted for the UK’s Polari Prize. In 2018, he was named the Marilyn Hassid Emerging Author for the Houston Jewish Book & Arts Festival. He and his partner now live in London, England, where he practices US immigration law and writes fiction. His latest novel is Emerald Road and he recently talked about it with Daryl Maxwell for the LAPL Blog.
What was your inspiration for Emerald Road?
Readers of The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants were eager to learn more about Isaac Perez, a character inspired by my life partner and his journey from El Salvador to the United States. That curiosity led me to explore Isaac’s story further, crafting an imaginative prequel that delves into the pivotal events and forces that set his journey in motion.
Are Isaac, Gerónimo, Arturo, Suchi, Diego, Don Federico, or any of the other characters in the novella, inspired by or based on specific individuals?
The original Isaac in The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants was loosely inspired by my life partner’s journey, but in Emerald Road, he evolved into a more fictionalized character—so much so that any resemblance is now purely incidental. As for the others, they’re entirely products of my imagination.
Same question about Ahbhu. Is he inspired by a real dog, or dogs, you have known?
Ahbhu is a nod to Harlan Ellison’s beloved dog of the same name—a small tribute to a writer I admire.
How did the novel evolve and change as you wrote and revised it? Are there any characters or scenes that were lost in the process that you wish had made it to the published version?
Before writing Emerald Road, I mapped out a detailed scene plan and stayed true to it throughout the process. However, the second half of the novel—Isaac’s actual journey from El Salvador—took on a life of its own, evolving in unexpected ways as I wrote. Fortunately, very little was left on the cutting room floor, and the story unfolded much as I had envisioned.
Isaac is exploring, and struggling with, his sexuality at a time, and in a place, that didn’t make that easy. How old were you when you came out to yourself? Were you able to come out to others then or later? How did it go?
I had a clear sense of my identity from a young age, so there was never a dramatic coming-out moment. In my family, it was more of an unspoken understanding—what you might call a “don’t ask, don’t tell” dynamic. When I entered a serious relationship, I simply introduced my partner. At first, he was acknowledged as a family friend, and over time, he was embraced as my partner.
What would you say to someone, at any age, who is struggling with the idea of coming out (especially if they are living in a place/culture that may not be accepting)?
If you're in a place where being yourself puts you at risk or keeps you from living authentically, don’t hesitate to seek out a new environment where you’re valued and respected. Sometimes, the best thing you can do for yourself is to leave, start fresh, and build a life where you can thrive on your own terms.
How familiar were you with El Salvador’s civil war over the late 1970s and 1980s prior to writing Emerald Road? Did you have to do a bit of research? If so, how long did it take you to do the research and write your novel?
I was already well-versed in El Salvador’s civil war, having worked as a lawyer in a Salvadoran legal clinic in Los Angeles during the 1980s, where I helped clients with their asylum claims. However, while writing Emerald Road, I deepened my understanding through additional research to ensure accuracy and nuance in the storytelling.
What was the most interesting or surprising thing that you learned during your research?
One of the most striking discoveries during my research was the deep-rooted suppression of Mayan culture in El Salvador—an erasure that spanned generations and ultimately contributed to the tensions that erupted into full-scale armed conflict in the late 20th century.
Have you ever visited El Salvador? If so, when and where did you go? Do you have any favorite places? A hidden gem that someone visiting for the first time should not miss?
I’ve visited El Salvador three times so far. My first trip was in 2012, at a time when the country was considered a no-go zone due to rampant gang violence. My second visit, in 2023, was for research on Emerald Road and the transformation was nothing short of astonishing. In 2012, El Salvador was known as the murder capital of the world, with a population living in fear, unable to safely leave their homes. Just eleven years later, it had become the safest country in Latin America, drawing international tourists to its stunning beaches, world-class surf, and vibrant cities and towns waiting to be explored.
One of the most striking changes was in the historic center of San Salvador. When I first saw it, it was a decaying, gang-controlled district overrun by squatters. Now, it's a beautifully restored colonial-era gem, complete with charming squares, elegant architecture, and even a cutting-edge National Library featuring an AI and robotics lab.
As for favorite spots, climbing El Boquerón—the volcano featured in Emerald Road—was an unforgettable experience. I also loved wandering through San Salvador’s revitalized historic center, indulging in Salvadoran street food, and traveling the breathtaking Ruta de las Flores, which winds through lush coffee plantations, Mayan villages like Nahuizalco and Ataco, and important pilgrimage sites.
There’s still so much more I want to see. On my next trip, I’m looking forward to visiting the colonial town of Panchimalco, trekking through the monkey jungles of the Montecristo Cloud Forest, and exploring the cocoa-growing plantations of Cacaopera. El Salvador is a country full of surprises, and I can’t wait to discover more.
Emerald Road is definitely a coming of age story. I remember reading or being told by someone that every reader has a book telling a coming of age story that helped them with their transition from childhood to young adulthood. Did you have a book like that when you were Isaac’s age? If so, what was it?
Absolutely. For me, that book was Portnoy’s Complaint—bold, irreverent, and unfiltered in a way that cracked open new ways of thinking about identity, desire, and the absurdity of growing up.
Are you hopeful that Emerald Road may be that book for future teens?
I’d love for Emerald Road to resonate with young readers in that way. If it helps even one person feel seen, understood, or less alone in their journey, that would be incredibly meaningful.
Emerald Road also joins the stories that explore the special relationship between a boy and his dog (Harlan Ellison’s A Boy and his Dog and Dean Koontz’s Watchers just to name two). Do you have a favorite "boy and his dog" story?
Growing up, I loved Lassie Come-Home and The Call of the Wild, both of which captured the deep loyalty and connection between humans and their canine companions. But as a teenager, A Boy and His Dog by Harlan Ellison blew me away. Both the short story and the film fascinated me with their dark humor and gritty take on the classic boy-and-dog dynamic.
One detail that stuck with me from my first reading was that Blood, the telepathic dog in the story, was descended from another dog named Ahbhu. I was so taken by the name that I decided right then that I’d name my own dog Ahbhu someday. Later, I learned that Ellison’s real-life dog was also named Ahbhu, which made the connection even more meaningful. The Ahbhu in Emerald Road, then, is my small tribute to one of my favorite authors, Harlan Ellison.
If/when Emerald Road were going to be adapted into a motion picture or series, who would your dream cast be?
Imagining Emerald Road on screen is thrilling because of its rich characters and vivid settings. Here’s my dream cast:
- Isaac Perez: Julio Torres (Problemista, Los Espookys) Julio Torres' introspective, expressive presence makes him a perfect fit for Isaac. His Salvadoran roots add authenticity, and his unique ability to balance vulnerability with a quiet strength would bring depth to the character.
- Gerónimo: Tenoch Huerta (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Narcos: Mexico). Gerónimo, Isaac's key mentor, needs a commanding yet empathetic presence. Huerta’s intensity and gravitas would make him an excellent choice.
- Arturo: Diego Calva (Babylon, Narcos: Mexico). As Isaac's protective older brother, Arturo is both charismatic and deeply caring. Calva's ability to bring warmth and strength to his roles makes him a great fit.
- Suchi: Indya Moore (Pose, Escape Room: Tournament of Champions). Suchi is fierce, protective, and relentless in her fight for LGBTQ+ migrants. Indya Moore’s powerful presence and activism would lend real emotional weight to the role.
- Diego: Anthony Ramos (In the Heights, Hamilton). Diego is the kind-hearted figure who rekindles Isaac's hope. Ramos' natural charisma and sincerity would make his portrayal especially compelling.
- Don Federico: Joaquim de Almeida (Clear and Present Danger, Queen of the South) Don Federico is an imposing, authoritative figure. De Almeida’s gravelly voice and commanding screen presence make him the perfect choice.
- Cashtōka: María Telón (Ixcanul, La Llorona). As Suchi’s Mayan mother, Cashtoka is a figure of wisdom and resilience. María Telón's deep roots in Mayan storytelling and her powerful performances would bring authenticity and depth to the role.
- Ahbhu: Played by a well-trained Australian Cattle Dog Isaac's loyal and mysteriously intelligent dog, Ahbhu, is an essential part of the story. A highly trained dog with expressive eyes would be crucial to capturing their unique bond on screen.
This lineup would bring Emerald Road to life with authenticity, emotional depth, and incredible storytelling.
What’s currently on your nightstand?
The Plot Against America by Philip Roth.
Can you name your top five favorite or most influential authors?
Kazuo Ishiguro, Salman Rushdie, Anthony Burgess, Yukio Mishima, and Jorge Luis Borges—each of these writers has profoundly influenced my storytelling. Whether it’s Ishiguro’s quiet emotional depth, Rushdie's rich, layered narratives, Burgess’s linguistic daring, Mishima’s intensity, or Borges’s mind-bending explorations of time and reality, their work has shaped my perspective as both a reader and a writer.
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
The Time Machine by H.G. Wells. I was fascinated by the idea of traveling through time and seeing the world transform over centuries. It sparked my imagination early on and probably played a role in my lifelong love of storytelling.
Was there a book you felt you needed to hide from your parents?
Portnoy’s Complaint, which I stumbled across—mis-shelved in the children's section of our public library—when I was twelve. Later, as a teenager, I tried to hide The Happy Hooker by Xaviera Hollander, but my mother found it anyway. So much for secrecy.
Is there a book you've faked reading?
The Bible—like so many others.
Can you name a book you've bought for the cover?
I’ve never done that. A great cover might catch my eye, but I always read the description before making a decision.
Is there a book that changed your life?
Confessions of a Mask by Yukio Mishima changed my life. Reading it was a revelation—I wouldn’t be the person I am today had I not encountered that book. It gave me a language for things I hadn’t yet articulated and showed me the power of literature to expose, challenge, and transform.
Can you name a book for which you are an evangelist (and you think everyone should read)?
I think everyone can find value in reading The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. Beyond its enchanting story, it explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the quest for home. Baum’s narrative encourages readers to recognize their inner strengths and the importance of companionship. Its enduring relevance continues to inspire and resonate across generations. More importantly, the novel's innocence and accessibility make it a delightful read for all ages, offering valuable insights no matter where you are in life.
Is there a book you would most want to read again for the first time?
Perelandra by C.S. Lewis. Ironically, the novel explores how seeking to relive an initial pleasure can diminish its delight. Experiencing it anew would be both fitting and profound.
What is the last piece of art (music, movies, TV, more traditional art forms) that you've experienced or that has impacted you?
The recent Netflix series The Secret of the River profoundly impacted me. Set in a small Oaxacan village, it follows two boys, whose friendship is sealed by a traumatic secret. The series delves into themes of friendship, identity, and the unique cultural context of the Zapotec community, particularly the Muxe—individuals recognized as a third gender. I found it to be masterfully cast and acted, one of the best shows I’ve seen in a while.
What is your idea of THE perfect day (where you could go anywhere/meet with anyone)?
My perfect day would be a reunion of all my loved ones, both those who have passed and those still with me, on the shores of the Mediterranean during a balmy spring afternoon. We'd embrace, share stories, and enjoy each other's company until the sun sets, painting the sky with vibrant twilight hues.
What is the question that you’re always hoping you’ll be asked, but never have been? What is your answer?
"How long would you like to live?"
"Forever. The idea of experiencing all that life has to offer, witnessing the evolution of the world, and continually growing intrigues me deeply."
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on Shadows of Mégantic, a sequel to my 2023 novel The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants. This new novel delves deeper into Isaac’s story, exploring its final threads and bringing a sense of closure to his journey. It’s a story of grief, redemption, and the search for meaning after loss—one that I’m excited to share.
