What Would Frida Do? A Guide to Living Boldly is a contemporary guide to life, love, and happiness inspired by the extraordinary artist Frida Kahlo. We spoke with author Arianna Davis about the inspiration for What Would Frida Do? A Guide to Living Boldly, the safe haven bookstores offer, and more!
“A modern take on a woman who was modern beyond her time. Arianna Davis’s book paints a colorful picture of the strength, courage, and love that uplifted Frida Kahlo through her many tragedies. This comprehensive look into Frida’s life leads me to think that we could all learn a lesson or two from Frida.”
Nina Garcia, editor-in-chief of Elle
Please tell us a little bit about what inspired you to write this book and how this story took shape for you.
Frida Kahlo’s quotes and art live on decades after her death, particularly now in the social media era. But for those who didn’t know the story behind the artist, I wanted share her tale with a new generation—while also taking a look at the lessons we can learn from a woman who lived her life boldly, far ahead of her time.
In two sentences or less, what’s something that might surprise Libro.fm listeners about your audiobook?
Part self-help, part-biography, this is not just your typical biography—and it’s also not just for Frida Kahlo fans! What Would Frida Do? was written for anyone who needs a dose of creativity, motivation, or just a reminder to “Viva la vida!” (live life to the fullest)!
Have you listened to your own audiobook? If so, what struck you about the narration?
I have, and it was such an incredible experience to hear my written words take on a new life. I loved the narrator’s voice and the emphasis she put on certain parts; listening to it versus reading it, I could almost forget I had written the words myself!
Are you an audiobook listener? If so, what are some of your favorite audiobooks?
I’m admittedly not a major audiobook listener but I’ve gotten more into them during the pandemic as I’ve looked for meditative experiences and ways to unplug. I’m currently enjoying Barack Obama’s A Promised Land.
What have independent bookstores and/or booksellers meant to you personally and professionally?
Living in New York City, indie bookstores have always been a safe haven. For me, indie bookstores are a retreat for when I just want to escape the real world into an endless world of books, where there’s almost always a cat to greet you and booksellers who will let you read and peruse in peace.
Anything else to share with us?
I’m thrilled What Would Frida Do? is now an audiobook, and I hope readers who want to share their reviews will do so, or share their experience on Instagram and tag me! I love interacting with readers and their reviews there: @ariannagab