![]() ![]() I can’t relate specifically to having a father deported, like Carmela, but my mother was in and out of prison for most of my childhood. I also connect to the theme of forced separation seen in the story. Robinson: I grew up in a predominantly Latino community in Los Angeles, and a lot of the backdrop of Carmela was inspired by the neighborhood I grew up in, from the laundromat to the panadería to the street vendors and vegetable stands. Do you have any images of your process you can share? Can you share a little about that? And the artwork itself is wonderful. But you and I have talked about how Carmela’s story was personal for you, too. Like CJ, you were raised by your grandmother. One of my favorite things about your work, Christian, is how you always manage to find a personal entry point. I think having children has made me truly appreciate the power of the picture book. She often calibrates new experiences by using the books we’ve read as reference points. A good picture book can transport a child to a new world. I’m just so proud we get to work alongside so many great creators. I’m astonished by the quality of work that’s being published right now. I also love that it’s an excuse to read piles of picture books every night. It really puts everything into perspective. The best part is how much our four-year-old daughter likes him. But he’s got smiles for days (especially when my wife picks him up). ![]() He’s four months old and he’s insanely chubby. How has becoming a father influenced the way you tell stories?ĭe la Peña: It’s so crazy that I now have a daughter and a son. Speaking of balancing it all, you recently had a new addition to the family. I’d say I’m feeling the same way now as we approach the release of Carmela. I also remember being happily busy with other book and animation projects, which was a good distraction from any anxiety I may have felt. The story was so personal, which left me feeling more vulnerable about how it would be received. ![]() Robinson: Honestly, I was a nervous wreck before the release of Last Stop on Market Street. I’m curious, do you remember anything about the weeks leading up to the publication of Last Stop on Market Street? This book is really special to me, partly because of the subject matter, but also because it was another chance to work with you. We asked de la Peña and Robinson to interview each other about their process, and to talk about why Carmela’s story feels particularly timely.ĭe la Peña: Hey Christian! I’m so excited about the upcoming release of Carmela Full of Wishes. The duo is back this month with a new book, Carmela Full of Wishes, about a girl whose birthday wish is granted when she gets to accompany her older brother on errands, exploring their vibrant Spanish-speaking community along the way. In 2016, de la Peña and Robinson teamed up for the acclaimed picture book Last Stop on Market Street, winner of a Newbery Medal, a Caldecott Honor, and a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor. Illustrator Christian Robinson’s picture books include the Gaston and Friends series, written by Kelly DiPucchio Leo: A Ghost Story by Mac Barnett and School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex. Matt de la Peña is the author of several YA novels, including Mexican WhiteBoy, We Were Here, and The Living, as well as numerous picture books. ![]()
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