Tucson Festival of Books

John Parra (he/him/his)



John Parra

John Parra is an award-winning, best-selling artist, illustrator, author, and educator, celebrated for his vibrant, Latino-themed children’s picture books and distinctive commercial artwork. His recent titles include the inspired biography "¡Viva Valenzuela!: Fernandomania Erupts in Los Angeles", which tells the story of legendary Mexican baseball pitcher Fernando Valenzuela, and "This Moment Is Special: A Día de Muertos Story," a heartfelt exploration of mindfulness through family and tradition. He lives and works in Queens, New York.

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Awards: Pura Belpré Award, New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book of the Year Award, The Christophers Award, SCBWI Golden Kite Award, and the Américas Award

Communities: Hispanic or Latinx


Books:
¡Viva Valenzuela!
Fernandomania Erupts in Los Angeles
Children
Astra Publishing House
March 2026
ISBN 9781662680274
40 pages

This Moment Is Special
A Día de Muertos Story (Day of the Dead)
Children
Simon and Schuster
July 2025
ISBN 9781665948241
40 pages