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Jesús Canchola Sánchez had his first short story published at the age of 7 in his Chicago elementary school newspaper. His debut novel is Escape From Natura Meta (2025). He received the Hispanic Playwrights in Residence award by INTAR Theater and won the Pregones Theater Asunción Playwrights Competition. He's the author of the children's book Pepito Has A Doll/Pepito tiene una muñeca (2021). Canchola Sánchez was a producer on the morning talk show Las Comadres con Gloria B (2008-2010) that aired on Telemundo 47 in the tri-state area. He is the writer/director of the Mexican feature film Bittersweet Waters (2019). As an actor, he appeared on NBC's Late Night with Conan O'Brien "Conando" sketches and danced on Bhangra Dance Workout of Massala Productions. He was on stage at the Public Theater in 365 days/365 plays, Pregones Theater, Fringe NYC and played Demetrius in A Midsummer Night's Dream directed by Stuart Vaughan at the Lucille Lortel Theater.
Reviewed by Mansoor Ahmed for Readers' Favorite
Escape from Natura Meta by Jesús Canchola Sánchez is a thought-provoking story set in a future society where everyone is expected to be the same for the good of all. The main character, Gabriel, grows up in Natura Meta, a place where children are raised by robots, memories are erased if you break the rules, and even speaking another language is forbidden. Gabriel’s only real comfort comes from secret dream visits with his ancestor, Beatriz, who teaches him about love, prayer, and the importance of being different. As Gabriel turns eighteen and faces the adult assessment that will decide his future, he begins to question the strict rules and sameness that control his life. The story follows Gabriel as he tries to hold on to his memories, his true self, and the lessons from Beatriz while the society around him pushes everyone to fit in and forget their past.
Jesús Canchola Sánchez's writing is clear and thoughtful, making it easy to understand Gabriel’s feelings and struggles. The plot moves at a steady pace, blending moments of quiet reflection with tense scenes as Gabriel faces the challenges of growing up in such a controlled world. I liked how the author used Gabriel’s dreams and memories to show the power of family and the danger of losing your individuality. The characters feel real, especially Gabriel and Beatriz, and their bond adds warmth to the story. Themes of identity, freedom, and the value of remembering your roots are woven throughout. Reading this book made me think about how important it is to be yourself, even when it’s hard. I think anyone who enjoys stories about courage and finding their path will find Escape from Natura Meta moving and memorable.
