Leu Seyer is the pen name of Miguel A. Reyes-Mariano, an author whose work uniquely blends real-life experiences with imaginative storytelling. His latest novel, “My Buddy Bali: A Tourist in Kisses and Tears,” showcases Seyer’s ability to explore complex emotional themes while weaving a captivating narrative.
The story follows Bali, a seven-month-old Corgi, as he embarks on an unexpected journey in a world transformed by technological advancements and climate change. With an extensive background that includes a 22-year tenure in the U.S. Navy and nearly two decades of experience in social work, Seyer brings a unique perspective to his writing. His deep understanding of human resilience and societal challenges enriches the emotional layers of “My Buddy Bali,” which address themes of global warming, bonding, chaos, loss, and survival in a rapidly changing world.
Set in 2051, the story depicts the consequences of climate change and advanced technology that have reshaped daily life. The narrative centers on Bali’s escape from his home in Toronto as he embarks on a quest for adventures and freedom. However, what begins as a simple escape soon evolves into an extraordinary journey. Bali finds himself teleported to a parallel dimension, and he becomes entangled in a futuristic plot involving scientific experiments. The story ends when Bali appears in the filming of the award winning South Korean soap opera Kisses and Tears.
This surreal and unexpected turn of events explores the intersection of technology and emotion, bringing together elements of magical realism, humor, and fantasy. As Bali’s adventures unfold, the novel questions the boundaries between humans, animals, and machines and examines how technology can both help and hinder the human experience.
At its core, My Buddy Bali is a deeply personal story for Seyer. The loss of his own Corgi, Billy-Bali, who a speeding driver tragically rolled over, inspired his story. This loss is reflected in the book’s exploration of grief, the bond between pets and their owners, and the emotional complexities of coping with profound loss. Through this narrative, Seyer transforms his personal heartache into a broader exploration of universal themes.
Seyer’s extensive travels across thirty-seven countries and five continents influenced the novel’s global perspective. His experiences living in diverse cities—from Mexico and Brazil to Italy, Spain, and the Dominican Republic—have shaped his views on survival, resilience, and the unpredictability of life. These experiences are woven into the narrative, enriching the novel’s themes and offering a nuanced worldview.
Academically, Seyer holds a Ph.D. (ABD) in Spanish, an MPA, an MS in finance, a BA in Special Education, and a BS in Business and Economics. This diverse academic background allows him to incorporate a wide range of intellectual insights into his storytelling, adding depth to the book’s exploration of social, environmental, and technological issues.
The novel has received positive critical reception. Dr. Tatiana Pires-Zalla, a Lawyer, reader, and critic, described it as “a fantasy book about the dog stories of a seven-month-old Corgi puppy, full of surprises,” highlighting the novel’s captivating blend of adventure and emotional depth.
My Buddy Bali offers more than just a fantasy adventure; it is a thoughtful meditation on love, loss, and the evolving relationship between humans and the world they inhabit. The novel’s themes of technological advancement, climate change, and human connection make it a timely and reflective read, touching on increasingly relevant issues in todays’ world.
The book is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and soon in French and Japanese. It has three original cover designs: one for Dog Lovers, one for sci-fi fans, getting into the Time Machine, and one more for drama-aficionado, landing in the Soap Opera. Each cover reflects a different facet of the story, from its humorous and heartwarming elements to its fantastical and futuristic themes.
Through My Buddy Bali, Seyer invites readers into a world where the boundaries between the real and the imagined are fluid and where the power of love, even in the face of loss, transcends the challenges of an ever-changing world.
To learn more about My Buddy Bali: A Tourist in Kisses and Tears and to follow Leu Seyer’s literary journey, visit his WordPress blog, explore his Amazon author page, or connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, GoodReads, and BookBub.
Check out the BetterAuds feature for for more information on the book’s themes, including its exploration of climate change and technological advancements.
