Teosinte began as a series of poems and then merged with the symbolism of Regina Szczypiorski's art. It is structured on the seven days and nights of the Mayan Underworld. A parallel story emerged with the author's diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in December 2010. This book is an honest account of one woman processing the system of cancer treatment in our country. It was written in the form of poetry and journals over a period of ten years, culminating with the assertion of a new myth; a myth that responds to the common theme of the phoenix across cultures and traditions; a myth that states the phoenix has landed, built her nest, burned and flew ... and now it's time to move forward. 'After a less than ideal childhood and a difficult adult life, being hit with cancer did not make sense to me. I knew as soon as I was diagnosed I would write a book. My oldest son asked me if I thought about reading some self-help/survivor stories and I replied to him, 'No, I'm writing one.' That was Christmas Day 2010.' - Author Karen Chertok Karen Chertok is a middle school teacher specializing in students with autism. She currently resides in New Mexico. 'This is my first book. My second book, The New Jerusalem, is complete and ready for the editing process, and I have begun my third book, The Child.'