Zines (pronounced “zeens”) are DIY booklets that can be created by anyone and be about anything! In a society that centers capitalism and the mainstream, zines are meant to be a way for underrepresented and marginalized voices to be heard.

While I’ve been writing for nearly two decades, I only recently discovered zines in 2023. Zines are a refreshing way for me to visualize my writing and find connections with others. In addition to sharing my zines at local San José community events, I also facilitate zine workshops for youth and adults.

One of my zines, when the heart overflows, is currently on-view in the CATHARSIS Art Show at the School of Arts & Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza. November 21, 2025 – January 5, 2026.

My zines are a reflection of my heart. Paired with the DIY-nature of zines and the fact that many of my zines are based on my poetry from my early twenties, you could say that my zines are a return back to my younger self. My zines showcase the heartaches of growing up and speaking up.

My zines include:

• Call to Action: Your Voice Matters
• paperstonehearts
• AM I GOING TO CHANGE?
• super short excerpt from my latest play-in-progress, stonefruit

Some future zine ideas I have include nice thoughts and helpful affirmations and a comical reflection on how I forget I have a period. I share my zine journey on Instagram (@marmaym), so if this has piqued your interest, please give me a follow!