Peruvian writer, painter, and singer Elisa Tokeshi has released her first novel, Borderline sagrada, drawing directly from her personal struggles with addiction and recovery. The 27-year-old artist launched the book at the Lima International Book Fair to share her journey of personal transformation.
Tokeshi has built a career across multiple artistic fields, including music, painting, writing, and social media content creation. Presenting her debut publication at the event expands her work as an author while offering a broader audience insight into her personal experiences.
In discussing her public presence on Instagram, Tokeshi said sharing personal details felt natural because of her outgoing personality. Although having a larger following increases public exposure, she noted that she does not worry about being judged. She reads comments and blocks users who leave cruel messages, adding that she considers it a compliment if someone creates a new profile just to view her page.
From Personal Catharsis to Published Novel
Tokeshi explained that her writing process began by recording her experiences like shaping a block of marble. The initial phase served as a cathartic release, after which she transformed the narrative, changed characters, and edited the text. She enjoyed the editing stage most because it allowed her to separate the fictional protagonist, Julieta, from her own life.
She initially worked on the manuscript independently before collaborating with Lucía Patsias, an editor at Planeta. Publishing a physical book through conventional channels had always been a personal dream, and Tokeshi noted that writing provided crucial support when she first achieved sobriety after quitting alcohol.
The novel explores themes of addiction, including a pivotal mirror scene that reflects Tokeshi's own life. She confirmed that the scene represents the moment she decided to change her trajectory, quit alcohol, and begin writing the book.
Offering advice to others facing addiction, Tokeshi emphasized that no single path to recovery exists, though seeking help and communicating openly are essential. She stated that admitting her struggles with alcohol and drugs made her journey easier, whereas denial makes internal struggles far more difficult.
For aspiring writers, Tokeshi recommended beginning with whatever thoughts arise initially rather than waiting for a specific topic. She described her personal journal as a direct textual reflection of her mind, noting that her approach to writing literature, poetry, and songs is impulsive before the editing phase begins.
Overcoming Addiction and Rebuilding a Creative Career
Reflecting on her past decade, the 27-year-old artist shared that she spent much of her youth balancing studies, dropping out of school, and dealing with substance abuse. Three and a half years ago, she completely stopped using alcohol and marijuana.
Tokeshi currently studies painting and continues her work as a musician. She previously left her music studies due to her struggles with drugs and alcohol, a decision she regretted for years but now views as an opportunity that helped her build a healthier relationship with her music.
Tokeshi described herself today as an extroverted and cheerful person who feels far more stable after prolonged periods of sadness. She noted that she was surprisingly shy as a child. Media personality Mafe Delgado led the official presentation of Tokeshi's book at the fair.
Regarding the Peruvian art scene, Tokeshi expressed strong faith in its potential to grow beyond national borders. She stated that she has no desire to leave Peru, choosing instead to develop her career locally and demonstrate that international reach is possible from within the country.
She praised the ambition of female Peruvian musicians, noting a strong determination among them to succeed globally. She observed that local music receives significantly more attention today than when she began her career ten years ago, with digital platforms like TikTok helping audiences discover new artists.
Addressing self-image, Tokeshi said she can no longer identify traits she dislikes about herself, having learned to view past flaws as natural human characteristics. While she could have listed numerous faults three and a half years ago, she confirmed that she now maintains a healthy and positive relationship with herself.
