In Episode 23, we’re joined by two incredible creators behind the bilingual picture book Kindness Glows in the Dark / La bondad brilla en la oscuridad—author Gama Valle and illustrator Mrinali Álvarez Astacio.

Gama Valle is a Puerto Rican children’s author whose storytelling is inspired by his childhood, nature, and the spirit of generosity he experienced growing up. His work shines a light on Puerto Rico’s culture, communities, and the power ofkindness.

Mrinali Álvarez Astacio is an award-winning Puerto Rican author-illustrator with over 15 years of experience creating children’s books. With a PhD in children’s book illustration, her work blends art, culture, and imagination—inviting youngreaders to dream while exploring their heritage.

Together, they’ve created a heartfelt bilingual story that explores friendship, compassion, and important social themes like food insecurity—presented in a way that is accessible and hopeful for young readers.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or lover of children’s literature, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Listen now and join us in celebrating bilingual books and the creators behind them!

#BilingualBooks#ChildrensBooks #LatinxAuthors #PictureBooks #BilingualBookBuddies #KidLit#RepresentationMatters

Contact the guests:

Gama Valle

Instagram: @gamavalle

Threads: @gamavalle

Mrinali Alvarez Astacio

Instagram: @mrinalipr

X: @mrinalipr

Meet Your Hosts:

Alicia Salazar – Mexican American children’s author andformer elementary school teacher. Author of the Camila the Star series, Aliciacrafts stories that empower young readers.

Website: alicia-salazar.com

Facebook: AliciaSalazar Author

Instagram: @albricias123

Claudia Sloan – Mexican American artist, author, andillustrator known for her whimsical children’s books like Grey Ghost Mischiefand We Are The Valley!. Claudia’s work celebrates Latinx culture and wellness.

Website: claudia-sloan.com

Instagram: @claudia.sloan

Silvia López – Cuban American author and former children’slibrarian. Silvia’s books, including Uno Más, One More: A Latino Retelling ofan Old Scottish Ballad, and Queen of Tejano Music: Selena, highlight culturalheritage and diversity.

Website: silvialopezbooks.com

Instagram: @silvialopezbooks

Facebook: Silvia.Lopez.Writes

About Bilingual Book Buddies:

Bilingual Book Buddies is a podcast dedicated tocelebrating bilingual children’s literature. Each episode featuresconversations with authors, illustrators, and many others involved in bringingbilingual books to life.

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