As a child growing up in Colorado, I often found myself searching for stories that had characters that looked like me. In the 80s and 90s there were few, and it wasn’t until I was in tenth grade when I was assigned the book Bless Me Ultima, that I finally found characters that looked more like my family. I was so moved!

That significant lack of representation in literature was decades ago. But, when my oldest son turned four, I took him to our local public library to find a book on immigration that reflected my family’s journey. I discovered that the shelves were filled with books primarily focused on the experiences of immigrants arriving through Ellis Island, with little acknowledgment of the diverse narratives that shape our country today.

It was in that moment I decided I wanted to write the book that I wanted to read. I envisioned a book that not only showed the struggles and triumphs of the Mexican American experience but also celebrated the colorful images of my first home, Puerto Vallarta.

In a time when millions of immigrants contribute to the fabric of the United States, it is crucial for Latino children to see themselves represented in colorful, engaging pages.

I wrote this book not just for my son, but for all children who deserve to see their stories told.

I invite you to join me on this journey, as we explore the beauty of our heritage and the importance of representation in literature.

Thank you for being a part of this important conversation.