As the new year begins, a special book invites young readers to discover the life and legacy of a true cultural icon. Selena: A Little Golden Book Biography hits shelves on January 21, 2025, offering a heartfelt introduction to Selena Quintanilla’s extraordinary journey. Known as the Queen of Tejano music, Selena’s vibrant spirit, groundbreaking music, and dedication to her roots continue to inspire generations.

We spoke with author Maria Correa and illustrator Paula Zamudio to learn more about the creative process behind this stunning tribute to Selena’s life.

Why Selena’s Story Matters for a New Generation

In Selena: A Little Golden Book Biography, Maria Correa set out to celebrate Selena’s legacy while making it accessible to children. “I wanted to celebrate Selena’s brilliant life and legacy while introducing her to people who might not be familiar with her story,” Correa explained. “My hope is that this book will nurture a new generation of Selena fans.”

The book captures major milestones from Selena’s life while exploring her dreams, fears, and passions. Correa and editor Andrea came up with a balanced storyboard to reflect both the public and personal sides of Selena. “We wanted to include all the major moments of her life—the big changes, accomplishments, surprises—while also leaving space for a quieter exploration of Selena’s interior life,” Correa said.

Crafting a Biography for Young Readers

Condensing Selena’s dynamic journey into a story for ages 4–8 presented unique challenges. Correa focused on crafting a narrative that was both educational and emotionally resonant. “The challenge is making sure readers learn about the subject, but also feel something—that, when they close the book, they feel like they know that person on a deeper, more intimate level,” she shared.

This was especially true when addressing Selena’s tragic passing. Correa worked closely with the editor to ensure the tone was appropriate for children, omitting the name of Selena’s killer and keeping the focus on her life. “We are very conscious of the power of books—especially biographies—to immortalize their subjects, and this was a deliberate decision not to shine more light than necessary on this darkest part of Selena’s story,” Correa noted.

Illustrating Selena’s Spirit: A Conversation with Paula Zamudio

Illustrator Paula Zamudio brought Selena’s vibrant essence to life through art. For Zamudio, capturing Selena’s joy, passion, and connection to her Mexican roots was a priority. “I definitely wanted to capture her passion for music and her joyful artistic image, especially on stage,” Zamudio said. Her timeless fashion sense and warm personality also played a central role in the illustrations.

Researching Selena’s fashion style, both on and off stage, helped Zamudio incorporate authentic details into the artwork. “I wanted to incorporate as many of her designs as possible in the book, so even if she’s not wearing them in the art, they’re somewhere in the image,” she explained.

As a Mexican illustrator, Zamudio felt deeply connected to the project. “Her music really makes me feel nostalgic happiness,” she shared. “Her influence and relevance are something you can still sense today, as an important cultural icon. I felt honored and did my best to capture her essence within the illustrations.”

Celebrating Selena’s Legacy Through Dual-Language Editions

The book’s simultaneous release in English and Spanish honors Selena’s dual identity and broadens its reach. “Selena was American, but she had Mexican roots—and so this dual-language approach honors that duality that Selena struggled with and ultimately embraced,” Correa explained. This decision also ensures that both English and Spanish-speaking readers can connect with Selena’s story.

For Latine children, especially those navigating bilingual or bicultural identities, the book offers an empowering message. Correa encourages young readers to celebrate their unique connections to culture, even if language fluency feels like a barrier. “Language is only one piece of the puzzle—and fluency doesn’t mean you belong or don’t belong to that culture,” she emphasized. “Stay curious and keep learning!”

Music, Fashion, and Inspiration: Selena’s Multifaceted Impact

Selena’s influence extended far beyond music, touching fashion and culture in profound ways. Correa hopes that young readers will take away an enduring message from the book. “I hope they will see that you can be—and do—more than any one thing, that you can create your own path, and that making a lasting impact is not dependent on age,” she shared.

Similarly, Zamudio’s illustrations celebrate Selena’s creativity and charisma, drawing from her iconic looks and vibrant stage presence. For Zamudio, Selena’s music and fashion reflect the joy she brought to her fans. “I wanted to reflect that feeling into the project,” she said.

Behind the Scenes: The Creative Process

Correa’s personal connection to Selena’s story added depth to her writing. As a Colombian immigrant, she related to Selena’s navigation of dual identities. “As an immigrant, I was keen to explore how Selena connected with and celebrated her roots while creating something that was uniquely her own,” Correa shared.

For aspiring authors, Correa offers advice rooted in passion and cultural awareness. “Write what you are passionate about, because anyone can research enough to write a Little Golden Book biography; what makes them special is the personal connection and unique perspective the author brings to that person’s story.”

A Beautiful Tribute for All Ages

Selena: A Little Golden Book Biography is not just for children; it’s a celebration of Selena’s life and legacy for fans of all ages. Both Correa and Zamudio poured their hearts into creating a book that reflects Selena’s enduring impact.

As Correa summed it up, “Although Selena’s life was tragically cut short, her legacy is timeless. The joy she brought others through her music will long outlive her, and fans have the unique responsibility of keeping her memory alive in their minds and hearts.”

Whether you’re a lifelong Selena fan or introducing her story to the next generation, this book is a heartfelt tribute to a beloved icon. Grab your copy on January 21, 2025, and let Selena’s legacy inspire a new wave of dreamers.

Alyssa Reynoso-Morris is a queer Afro-Latine/x Dominican and Puerto Rican award-winning storyteller, author, and motivational speaker. She is a community organizer and mother of three (a singleton and twins). During the day, she works with community members, non-profit organizations, and government officials to make the world a better place. Then she puts her writer’s hat on to craft heartfelt stories. She is the author of Plátanos Are Love, Los Plátanos Son Amor, The Bronx Is My Home, Gloriana Presente: A First Day of School Book, Gloriana Presente: De la República Dominicana al Bronx, and Bold, Brilliant and Latine: Meet 52 Latine and Hispanic Heroes from Past and Present. She hopes you enjoy her stories. You can learn more about her at alyssaauthor.com

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