On Sunday, August 23, I had the pleasure of participating in the Powerful Picture Book Biographies panel at the historic Books of Wonder in New York City.

The discussion brought together children’s literature creators to explore the art of bringing real-life histories and inspiring figures to young readers. I shared my picture book biography, A Taxi for Everyone: How Roy Velásquez Fought for Equality, alongside Anne Lambelet, author-illustrator of Beatrix and Her Friends, and the talented author-illustrator duo Lesa Cline-Ransome and James Ransome, creators of Freedom to Read.

Thank you to Books of Wonder and to everyone who attended and helped make it such a memorable afternoon celebrating the power of historical storytelling—and the people whose stories deserve to be remembered and shared with young readers.

I’m proud to share that Isabel’s Birthday Surprise has been named a Writers’ League of Texas Discovery Prize for Picture Books. This heartfelt story, published by Magination Press and illustrated by Gabriella Galvez, is about hoping for your wishes to come true.

So grateful this story is finding its way into classrooms, libraries, and hearts. 

I recently joined the team at Texas Standard to discuss my latest book, A Taxi for Everyone: How Roy Velásquez Fought for Equality. This picture book biography celebrates Roy Velásquez’s remarkable legacy of fighting for civil rights and expanding access to transportation for everyone. Listen to our full conversation here.

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The launch celebration for A Taxi for Everyone: How Roy Velásquez Fought for Equality! was a heartfelt tribute to Roy Velásquez and the enduring legacy of his courage, leadership, and commitment to his community. It was a joy to celebrate with Roy’s family and friends, live conjunto music, and delicious treats from Mi Tradición Bakery. I am deeply grateful to everyone who helped bring this story to life, including illustrator Laura Sandoval Herrera, the little bee books team, my family and friends, and all who believed in this book. A heartfelt thank you to BookPeople for hosting such a wonderful celebration.

“An excellent example of citizen activism and immigrant contributions rolled into one.” — School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

Full review here!

Full review here!

I’m proud to share that Abuela’s Letter has been named a 2025 Best Book by the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature. This heartfelt story, published by Magination Press and illustrated by Alejandra Ruiz, explores themes of loss and grief within a Latin family, following a young girl who uses letter writing to cope, remember, and stay connected.

So grateful this story is finding its way into classrooms, libraries, and hearts. 💛📚

“Isabel delights in the heartfelt, homespun party and realizes her birthday wish has come true in an unexpected way. Zapata honors the disappointment children feel when their hopes don’t align with reality while also modeling resilience and the joy that can come from flexibility. Galvez’s soft pastel hues set a gentle tone…Isabel’s multigenerational family members are of Mexican heritage and speak both Spanish and English. A reader’s note, in English and Spanish and written by a psychologist, offers strategies to help children build inner strength. A warm and uplifting reminder that love and creativity are what make celebrations truly special.”—Kirkus

Full review here!

“A helpful tool for talking about the emotions that surround special events. Isabel’s inner world is vividly illustrated, with brightly colored art swirling around her in a style reminiscent of papel picado, visually expressing her hopes and worries. A robust bilingual reader’s note provides guidance for adults, offering activities to support children’s emotional development, and includes a recipe for Mexican buñuelos. A sweet, realistic story of family, culture, and emotional resilience.”–School Library Journal