María Leonor Baquerizo Díaz Granados (Guayaquil, 1960) is an Ecuadorian writer, professor, and empowerment coach. She is known for her contributions to Ecuadorian literature, particularly in the genre of short stories, where she explores psychological themes and human emotions. In addition to her literary work, she teaches at the Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil and ITS, and directs programs at Empowerment Coach Consultant. Her works, such as “Solo quería entender” and “Las grandes cosas se pierden en la niebla”, have earned her recognition as a significant figure in Ecuador’s literary scene.
Early Life and Education
María Leonor Baquerizo Díaz Granados was born in 1960 in Guayaquil, Ecuador. She attended the prestigious Maria Auxiliadora School in Guayaquil, which provided the foundation for her later career in literature and education. Deeply rooted in her hometown, she has remained a prominent figure in Ecuadorian cultural and academic circles throughout her life.
Academic and Professional Career
Beyond her work as a writer, Baquerizo has an extensive academic career. She is a Docente (professor) at the Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, where she has been involved in teaching and mentoring students in literature and related disciplines. Her teaching career also includes her role as a Docente at ITSU, another educational institution, demonstrating her commitment to education in multiple capacities.
In addition to her academic roles, Baquerizo is the Directora de Programas (Program Director) at Empowerment Coach Consultant, a position that reflects her interest in leadership, coaching, and personal development. This multifaceted career underscores her dedication to both the academic and personal growth of individuals.
Literary Career
María Leonor Baquerizo is a noted Ecuadorian writer, primarily known for her contributions to short stories and micro-narratives. Her debut collection, “Solo quería entender” (1999), was praised for its exploration of complex emotional and psychological themes. Her stories often focus on the human condition, the intersection of fear and nature, and the unexpected outcomes of life. Critics, such as Cecilia Vera de Gálvez, have noted her skill in building tension and crafting endings that leave lasting impressions on readers.
Some of her notable publications include:
- “Solo quería entender” (2001) – A collection of short stories published by Editorial Imaginaria in Guayaquil.
- “Las grandes cosas se pierden en la niebla” (2005) – Another collection of short stories that delve into human fear and tension, published by Edino.
- “Antología del microcuento ecuatoriano” (2019) – A significant contribution to this anthology, showcasing her micro-narratives alongside other prominent Ecuadorian authors.
Baquerizo’s works have also been featured in various anthologies, such as “Cuentos de uno y otro lado (de la frontera)” (2008) and “Utópica Penumbra: Antología de Literatura Fantástica Ecuatoriana” (2014), which include fantasy, science fiction, and horror stories by Ecuadorian writers.
Presentations and Collaborations
Baquerizo has actively participated in the Ecuadorian literary scene, frequently presenting and collaborating on works by other authors. In December 2012, she presented “El encanto del adiós”, a book by David Sosa about the life of Guayaquileño writer Miguel Donoso Pareja, at a cultural event in Guayaquil. Her role in these events highlights her status as a respected voice in Ecuadorian literature.
In 2018, she took part in the Cofradía del Vino, a literary discussion alongside author Raúl Vallejo, where they conversed about his award-winning novel, “El perpetuo exiliado”. This event, combining wine and literature, emphasized Baquerizo’s ability to engage deeply with literary analysis and dialogue.
She has also been a featured participant in various national literary events, including the Second National Meeting of Novel and Short Story Writers in Loja (2015), where she represented the Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil. These roles underscore her influence as both a writer and educator in Ecuador’s literary community.
Style and Themes
Baquerizo’s literary style is marked by a psychological depth and a subtle exploration of human fears. Her stories often present characters in situations where logic falters, and the tension builds gradually, often ending in ways that challenge readers’ expectations. She frequently uses nature as a symbolic force in her stories, blending attraction and fear to create rich, layered narratives.
Personal Life
María Leonor Baquerizo currently resides in Guayaquil, Ecuador, where she continues to contribute to both the literary and academic communities. Her deep ties to her city, both in her professional and personal life, have shaped her work and presence in Ecuador’s cultural landscape.
Legacy and Impact
María Leonor Baquerizo’s contributions to Ecuadorian literature and education are significant. As a respected writer, professor, and empowerment coach, her influence extends across various domains. Her stories are studied for their psychological complexity, and her role in presenting and critiquing the works of other Ecuadorian writers demonstrates her standing as a prominent intellectual and literary figure.
Selected Bibliography
- Solo quería entender (1999, 2001)
- Las grandes cosas se pierden en la niebla (2005)
- Antología del microcuento ecuatoriano (2019)
- Utópica Penumbra: Antología de Literatura Fantástica Ecuatoriana (2014)
Selected Works
- WorldCat, “Solo quería entender” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- WorldCat, “Las grandes cosas se pierden en la niebla” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- WorldCat, “Antología del microcuento ecuatoriano” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- Literatura Ecuatoriana, “María Leonor Baquerizo Díaz Granados” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- Biblioteca MAAC, “Cuentos de uno y otro lado (de la frontera)” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- Goodreads, “Utópica Penumbra: Antología de Literatura Fantástica Ecuatoriana” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí (ULEAM), “Guayaquil será escenario para presentar nuevos libros de Mar Abierto” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- Raúl Vallejo Official Website, “El perpetuo exiliado en La Cofradía del Vino” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- La Hora Ecuador, “Escritores del país se reúnen en Loja” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.
- Expreso Ecuador, “La voz de Miguel Donoso regresa desde el recuerdo” Retrieved on October 15, 2024. Click to view.