Conceição Maia, or simply Maia, was born in São Sebastião do Rio Preto, (Saint Sebastian of the Black River) in the state of Minas Gerais Brazil. With a degree in teaching, she ded...view moreConceição Maia, or simply Maia, was born in São Sebastião do Rio Preto, (Saint Sebastian of the Black River) in the state of Minas Gerais Brazil. With a degree in teaching, she dedicated herself entirely to her work, beginning her career as an elementary school teacher in her hometown. After that, she moved to Itabira, where she continued teaching for many years. As she turns 80 years old, she publishes her first book, Encounters and Losses, where she narrates a little bit of what she learned and lived, throughout her long journey. Today she is retired and lives in Belo Horizonte, capital of the state of Minas Gerais, and shares her time between Brazil and the United States where she has been granted citizenship.view less