Behind the Scenes: Building the Cuentitos App! Big news—I’m launching a brand-new app for kids on September 1! It’s called Cuentitos, and it’s all about helping children become confident storytellers in English and Spanish. Here’s how it works: Kids scroll through a list of fun characters, exciting settings, and tricky problems. After making their selections, the app generatesContinue reading “Behind the Scenes: Building the Cuentitos App!”
Author Archives: Alicia Salazar
Abuelita’s Song by Gloria Amescua and Mariyah Rahman
What is your favorite lullaby? The Picture Book of the Week is Abuelita’s Song, written by Gloria Amescua and illustrated by Mariyah Rahman. Available in a bilingual edition. ********** About the Book: Abuelita’s Song tells the story of a mother and son and the lullaby they shared. The mother sang it to her son when heContinue reading “Abuelita’s Song by Gloria Amescua and Mariyah Rahman”
3 Quick Writing Prompts That Spark Imagination (in English & Spanish!)
Looking for a fun way to boost creativity and reinforce positive values at home or in the classroom? These quick bilingual writing prompts are designed for kids ages 5–9—and they’re perfect for sparking stories and character growth. Each one highlights a core value and invites kids to imagine themselves in meaningful, magical moments. Courage / Valentía English:YouContinue reading “3 Quick Writing Prompts That Spark Imagination (in English & Spanish!)”
Silence/Silencio por/by Nívola Uyá
What is the most magical thing about nature? The Picture Book of the Week is Silence written and illustrated by Nívola Uyá. Available in English and Spanish editions. ********** ¿Cual es la cosa mas mágica de la naturaleza? El libro de cuentos de la semana es Silencio, escrito e ilustrado por Nívola Uyá. Disponible en edición inglésContinue reading “Silence/Silencio por/by Nívola Uyá”
Why I Write for Children/Por qué Escribo Para Niños
I write for kids because, as a teacher, I had the privilege of working with some of the bravest, funniest, most hardworking, and talented children I could ever hope to meet. They were my daily inspiration—the kind of kids who faced challenges with quiet strength, who laughed out loud at the smallest joys, and whoContinue reading “Why I Write for Children/Por qué Escribo Para Niños”
What Can We Learn From Camila/Qué podemos aprender de Camila
Camila may be a star, but it’s her character that shines the brightest. In the Camila the Star early chapter book series, Camila dreams big—whether she’s painting, riding horses, or putting on a show. But what makes her lovable isn’t just her talent. It’s her kindness, perseverance, and courage when things don’t go as planned.Continue reading “What Can We Learn From Camila/Qué podemos aprender de Camila”
Sidekicks & Leadership/Los Compañeros & el Liderazgo
Not all heroes lead from the front. Sometimes it’s the sidekick—the loyal, clever, kind-hearted friend—who keeps the mission moving forward. In kids’ stories (and real life), sidekicks quietly model powerful leadership. Sidekicks are often the encouragers, problem-solvers, and quiety thinkers. They might not seek the spotlight, but they help others shine. Think of Ron Weasley,Continue reading “Sidekicks & Leadership/Los Compañeros & el Liderazgo”
Lucy’s Light/La Luz De Lucía – Margarita del Mazo & Silvia Álvarez
Have you ever felt like your light doesn’t shine as bright as someone else’s? The Picture Book of the Week is Lucy’s Light, written by Margarita del Mazo and illustrated by Silvia Álvarez. Available in separate Spanish and English editions. ********** ¿Alguna vez haz sentido que tu luz no brilla igual de fuerte que las deContinue reading “Lucy’s Light/La Luz De Lucía – Margarita del Mazo & Silvia Álvarez”
Why Bilingual And Dual Language Stories Matter
I always tell people, “Spanish was my first language, but English is my native language.” This statement is usually met with curious looks. How can that be? I was born and grew up in the United States, but my parents were immigrants from Mexico. They taught me Spanish from birth, but as I grew up,Continue reading “Why Bilingual And Dual Language Stories Matter”
Big News: A New Book, A New Series, and a New Adventure!
Hi friends, I’m thrilled to share three exciting updates with you! It’s here! Cascarones: An Easter Surprise is now officially published!This joyful dual language picture book celebrates family, tradition, and the magic of confetti-filled Easter eggs. I wrote this story with love for the vibrant culture and memories it honors—available now wherever books are sold.Continue reading “Big News: A New Book, A New Series, and a New Adventure!”