Q: First, tell us something about yourself.
I’m Mona Liza Santos, a mom, a traveler, and an empath who loves to imagine and create stories that help children see the beauty in who they are and the world around them.
I’ve written nearly forty children’s books, some playful, some tender, and some that reach a little deeper, but they all come from the same place: love and truth.
My heart has always been with the children who feel a little different, a little too quiet, or a little too much. I write for them to remind them to embrace their own uniqueness and to never apologize for the light that makes them who they are.
Q: How and when did your journey start as a writer?
My writing journey began during the pandemic. The world slowed down, and for the first time in years, I had space to listen to the stories that had been waiting inside me.
I published my first book, Mama, I Love You, in 2021. It was written for my son, Michael. I just wanted to capture the love between a mother and her child, but it turned into something much bigger. Once I started writing, I realized this was more than a hobby. It was healing. It was purpose.
Every story since then has been a reflection of my life, my travels, and the lessons I’ve learned about love, resilience, and growth. Writing became the way I help children embrace who they are, celebrate their uniqueness, and believe that their voice matters.
Q: Tell us something more about your book series.
Every book I’ve written carries a piece of my heart. Some stories are soft and calming, others are playful or thought-provoking, but they all share the same purpose: to help children grow with kindness, courage, and self-acceptance.
I started by writing about self-love and emotional growth, but over time my books expanded into different genres and themes — from mindfulness and family bonds to identity, empathy, and the power of imagination.
Titles like If I Just Breathe, Proud of Me, The Dream Jar, I Am the Chosen One, Surround Yourself, I Love Me Because I Am Who I Am, Make Peace, Not War, No One Like You, and Books Are Life each carry their own message, yet they all connect through one simple truth: every child deserves to feel proud of who they are.
Each story may look different on the outside, but at the heart of them all is the same message — you don’t have to change to belong. Your uniqueness is your gift, and kindness will always be your greatest strength.
Q: How did you create the magical system in your books and characters?
The magic in my stories doesn’t come from spells or fairy dust. It comes from real life, from kindness, courage, forgiveness, and the quiet moments when a child starts to believe in who they are.
Every character I write carries a piece of truth. Sometimes it’s a part of me. Sometimes it’s someone I’ve met. And often, it’s my son who inspires me most. His curiosity and the way he looks at the world remind me that children already hold the kind of magic adults spend years trying to find again.
The worlds I create are simple, but they mean something. I want children to see that the real magic isn’t out there somewhere. It’s already in them.
Q: Do you want to leave any message for your readers?
To every child reading my books, I want you to know that who you are is enough. You don’t need to be louder, braver, or different to be worthy of love. You already are.
Keep being kind. Keep being curious. Keep believing in your own light, even when the world feels heavy.
And to the parents, teachers, and grandparents who read with their children, thank you. You are helping shape hearts that will grow into kind, thoughtful, and brave adults. Every story you share, every word of encouragement, and every moment you choose love—it all matters.
If there’s one thing I hope my books leave behind, it’s the reminder that love, in all its quiet forms, is the greatest story we can ever tell.
