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. Deeply committed to promoting art and literacy, Parra regularly speaks at schools and literacy conferences nationwide, inspiring young readers and artists alike. He lives and works in Queens, New York.
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
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