Q: First tell us something about yourself.
A: I’m a proud first-time mom and thrilled to debut my first children’s book, Island Dreams on New Land: Isabela’s Journey. As a proud Latina, I cherish the vibrant cultures of both my Puerto Rican and Dominican roots. My journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, which I earned in 2018, and three years of working with young children. My passion for helping others grow inspired me to pursue a dual certification in life and health coaching. Over time, I transitioned into a career with one of the largest global entertainment companies. However, my love for supporting growth—especially through literacy—has always been a constant. That love ultimately led me to write my first children’s book.
Q: How and when did your journey start as a writer?
A: Writing has always been a passion of mine. From crafting prose poetry in college to contributing articles for “The Odyssey”, storytelling has always been close to my heart. But my journey as a writer truly began as a child, writing little tales of my own. When my son was born, I found myself wanting to see the world through his eyes. It reignited my love for writing in a voice filled with boundless imagination. His birth in 2024 marked not only a new chapter in my life but also the start of my literary career.
Q: When did you write your first story? Is it published or not?
A: I began writing “Island Dreams on New Land: Isabela’s Journey” in March 2024 and dedicated the rest of the year to perfecting it. The book was officially published on December 28th, just in time to close the year. It’s now available on Amazon, and I couldn’t be prouder of this incredible milestone in my journey.
Q: Tell us something more about your books.
A: “Island Dreams on New Land: Isabela’s Journey”—and the future books I’m planning—are inspired by culture, big dreams, relatability, and love. I believe it’s so important to celebrate where we come from and how we’ve grown. My books aim to highlight these themes in joyful, heartfelt and meaningful ways, encouraging readers to appreciate their own journeys.
Q: How did these stories and characters come to your mind?
A: Isabela was inspired by my grandmother. Growing up, she would share stories of her life in Puerto Rico and her journey to America. It was a challenging transition to a new and unfamiliar world, but over time, she built a life for herself here. Isabela embodies my grandmother, my father, and so many others with similar stories. Through my books, I hope to honor their experiences and share their legacies in a meaningful way.
Q: Do you want to leave any message for your readers?
A: Absolutely! To my young readers, I hope Isabela’s journey reminds you to embrace the beauty of change and diversity. We live in a big, wonderful world, and it’s important to move forward with love in your hearts. To my grown-up readers, let’s lead by example for the next generation. Show them that “home is not just a place, but the love and connections we share with others, no matter where they’re from” (a quote from “Island Dreams on New Land: Isabela’s Journey”). Thank you for all the support!
