Author
Rafael López
6 books here
Me Llamo Celia: La Vida de Celia Cruz
Picture book · ages 4–8 · 620L
Gorgeous bilingual biography that doesn't simplify Celia's life—the art by López glows, the text honors her political courage and Afro-Cuban pride, and kids see a woman who refused to be small.
The Cazuela that the Farm Maiden Stirred
Picture book · ages 4–8 · 580L
A cumulative folktale in picture-book form that treats cultural food and community-building as joyful, unhurried acts — López's illustrations are the star.
Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln
Picture book · ages 4–8 · 620L · 2019
A luminous picture-book biography with Rafael López's signature watercolor style; introduces kids to a remarkable pianist most have never heard of, and the historical detail (Civil War, Lincoln) anchors it genuinely rather than sentimentally.
Tito Puente: Mambo King/Rey del Mambo
Picture book · ages 4–8 · 580L
A joyful, bilingual introduction to a real inventor of joy; López's illustrations pulse with the energy of the music, and kids absorb both the biography and the cultural pride.
The Drum Dream Girl
Picture book · ages 4–8 · 620L
A radiant picture book about a real Cuban drummer breaking gender barriers—López's illustrations are luminous, and the lyrical text celebrates joy, persistence, and cultural pride without preaching.
Book Fiesta!: Celebrate Children's Day/Book Day; Celebremos El día de los niños/El día de los libros
Picture book · ages 4–8
Bilingual celebration of a real Latin American holiday with vibrant López illustrations that make reading and community feel genuinely festive; teaches a cultural tradition most US kids won't encounter elsewhere.