Vanessa Montalban
Cuban American Vanessa Montalban is proof that the path to becoming an author isnât always a straight line. She dropped out of high school in 11th grade, got her GED, and worked in insurance and real estate before chasing her dream of writing. At 30, she enrolled in UCFâs creative writing program, and in 2024, she made her Young Adult (YA) debut with âA Tall Dark Trouble,â a witchy tale inspired by her Cuban heritage. Now, sheâs back with âThese Vengeful Wishes,â a standalone fantasy full of folklore, vengeance, and a very haunted wishing well.
When Ceciâs stepfather is arrested, she and her mom move back to Santa Aguas, a town famous for the legend of La Ceguaâa spirit that punishes untrustworthy men. Their new home? An abandoned manor tied to the very curse Ceciâs mother has tried to forget. Then, Ceci starts painting a mysterious door in the forest that doesnât exist⊠until it does. Behind the door, thereâs a well that grants wishes, but at a terrifying cost. As Ceciâs wishes spiral out of control, she must face the truth: La Cegua never forgets a debt. This is a great entry into the YA fantasy genre and it brings a dark fairy tale with themes like generational curses and the cost of power.
Gloria Muñoz
Colombian American Gloria Muñoz is a poet, translator, and advocate for multilingual literacy whose work has been recognized by the Academy of American Poets. Sheâs best known for her poetry collections âYour Biome Has Found Youâ and âDanzirly,â but now sheâs stepping into fiction with âThis is the Year,â a coming-of-age story that blends prose and poetry to tackle themes like grief, climate change, and the immigrant experience.
The world is burning, and Julieta Villarreal has one chance to leave it behind. At 17, Julieta has already lost her twin sister in a hit-and-run, and her Florida home is drowning in climate disasters. Then sheâs recruited by Cometa, a private space program that wants young pioneers to establish the first extraterrestrial settlement. Itâs a once-in-a-lifetime chance, but leaving Earth means leaving her family, her grief, and her past. This one is for fans of sci-fi, lyrical writing, and stories about resilience.
Puerto Rican Alexis Daria is the queen of Latinx romance. Her debut, âYou Had Me at Hola,â was a major hit, landing on best-of lists from Oprah Magazine to Entertainment Weekly. Sheâs known for writing steamy, heartfelt stories featuring ambitious Latina heroines, and her latest novel, âAlong Came Amor,â brings all the drama, spice, and family chaos you could want.
After her ex-husband dumps her to âfollow his dreams,â Ava Rodriguez swears off serious relationships. But she wouldnât say no to a no-strings one-night stand with a gorgeous hotelier. The thing is that, when she walks into her cousinâs engagement party, her one-night fling, Roman Vasquez, is standing right there as the best man to the groom. Now theyâre forced to see each other all the time, and Roman isnât content being Avaâs dirty little secret. He wants more. But with her family breathing down her neck, Ava has to decide: Is love worth the risk? This book gives telenovela-level juicy drama and a sizzling romance about second chances that we think anyone can get behind.
Yael Valencia Aldana
Caribbean Afro-Latine Yael Valencia Aldana is a poet, professor, and storyteller. Her work explores identity, ancestry, and the resilience of Black and Indigenous Latinas, making it essential in this day and age. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Valencia Aldana was raised in Barbados before moving to Brooklyn, and her poetry reflects the richness of her Caribbean and Latine heritage.
âBlack Mestizaâ is her most personal poetry collection yet and itâs a love letter to the Black and Indigenous women who shaped her. These poems unpack identity, colonialism, and the beauty of mixed-race experiences, and it will stay with you long after you finish reading.
Ibi Zoboi
Haitian Ibi Zoboi immigrated to the U.S. at age four and has written multiple award-winning books, including âAmerican Streetâ (a National Book Award finalist) and âPrideâ (a Caribbean remix of Jane Austenâs âPride & Prejudiceâ). But now, sheâs taking readers into unexplored, spellbinding territory with her contemporary fantasy debut, â(S)Kin.â
In Brooklyn, fireball witches donât last long. Marisol is the daughter of a soucouyantâa Caribbean fireball witch who sheds her skin and drinks life to survive. She thought she could leave her past behind, but Brooklyn is suffocating her magic. Meanwhile, Genevieve, a girl with a hunger she doesnât understand, finds herself drawn to a family secret that ties her to Marisol. As their lives intertwine, Marisol and Genevieve must face the power hiding under their skin and the sacrifices they must make to survive. This book is packed with Caribbean folklore and themes of inheritance and power.
Isabel Allende
Chilean American Isabel Allende is a literary icon known for combining magical realism and history into unforgettable stories like âThe House of the Spiritsâ and âCity of the Beasts.â Sheâs won countless awards, including Chileâs National Literature Prize and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Her upcoming novel, âMy Name is Emilia Del Valle,â brings readers back to 19th-century San Francisco, where a young woman is fighting for love, truth, and the power of her own voice.
Emilia del Valle has always wanted to be a writer, but in 1866, the world isnât kind to women with ambition. Raised by a loving stepfather after being abandoned as a baby, Emilia finds her calling in journalism only to get caught up in a dangerous war, a forbidden love, and a family secret that threatens everything she knows. âMy Name is Emilia Del Valleâ will be published on May 6, 2025, so keep an eye out for it if you enjoy historical fiction with a strong Latina character, intrigue, and romance.
Caro de Robertis
Caro De Robertis is a groundbreaking Uruguayan American writer whose work has earned a Stonewall Book Award, a Lambda Literary Award, and a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship. Their latest, âSo Many Stars,â is a first-of-its-kind oral history of trans, nonbinary, genderqueer, and Two-Spirit people of color.
Through powerful firsthand accounts, this book tells real stories of courage, survival, and cultural transformation. From activists and artists to everyday people who fought to exist freely, âSo Many Starsâ offers valuable perspectives and is a must-read for anyone interested in queer history and resistance. It will be released on May 13, 2025, so mark your calendar.
Crystal Maldonado
Puerto Rican Crystal Maldonado is known for writing romcoms featuring fat, brown girls living their best (and messiest) lives. Her debut, âFat Chance, Charlie Vega,â won the New England Book Award and was named Kirkus Best YA Fiction of 2021. Now, sheâs giving readers a road trip, a sapphic love triangle, and best-friend chaos with âGet Real, Chloe Torres.â
What do you do when your ex-besties refuse to speak to you? Well, according to Chloe Torres, you plan a road trip. Chloe just turned 18 and is ready for one last adventure before college. Moreover, sheâs on a mission to reunite her estranged BFFs by taking them to their favorite boy bandâs reunion concert. The only problem is that Sienna is giving her the cold shoulder and Ramona kissed her and then ghosted her. This book has one car, two ex-best friends, and a whole lot of drama. Itâs perfect for readers who love chaotic friendships, sapphic yearning, and pop culture. âGet Real, Chloe Torresâ will be out on May 13, 2025.
Natalie Guerrero
Puerto Rican-Dominican Natalie Guerrero is based in Los Angeles and her work has appeared in Electric Literature, Byline, Goop, and Blavity. Sheâs also co-authored books like âWalking in My Joyâ by actress Jenifer Lewis. âMy Train Leaves at Threeâ is her highly anticipated debut novel coming out on July 8, 2025, and it promises to be a raw, emotional story about grief, ambition, and the dark side of fame.
How do you rebuild a life that no longer feels like your own? Xiomara, an Afro-Latina singer and actress, has always had big dreams. But after the sudden death of her sister, sheâs left working minimum-wage jobs and living with her ultra-Catholic Puerto Rican mother in a cramped apartment. When a once-in-a-lifetime audition comes her way, Xiomara finally sees a future for herself. But the industry is ruthless, and she soon finds herself face-to-face with the ugly truths behind Hollywoodâs glitz and glamour. If you love drama, stories about fighting for your dreams, and messy protagonists, this will be up your alley.
Isabel Cañas
Mexican American Isabel Cañas is one of the most exciting voices in Latino horror. Her gothic debut, âThe Hacienda,â was compared to works like âMexican Gothicâ by Silvia Moreno-Garcia and âRebeccaâ by Daphne du Maurier. In 2025, sheâs back with âThe Possession of Alba DĂaz,â a terrifying historical horror novel set in 1765 Zacatecas that will be published on August 19, 2025.
Alba DĂaz should be safe. She fled her home with her wealthy fiancĂ©, seeking refuge in his family's mine. But soon after her arrival, she starts getting plagued by hallucinations, sleepwalking, and violent convulsions. Something inside her is growing stronger⊠and itâs hungry. âThe Possession of Alba DĂazâ is a gothic horror story that brings exorcism and dark family secrets, so be ready for some chills.
Photo by Kenny Eliason on UnsplashIf you grew up in a Latino household, there are certain universal truths that you can't help but agree with. From the mystical powers of "Vivaporu" to the joyous chaos of family gatherings that always, always, start later than planned, being part of a Latino family isn't just about shared ancestry; it's about a collection of hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes hair-raising experiences that bind us together.
Better known as "Vivaporu," this powerful potion could supposedly cure everything from a headache to a broken heart. It was your abuelita's answer to all ailments. Got the flu? Vivaporu. Twisted your ankle? Vivaporu. Existential crisis? Well, you get the picture.
Disney's Coco
Ah, la chancla - the infamous flip flop, often wielded by moms and abuelas, ready to fly at the speed of light to discipline a misbehaving child. It was a symbol of authority that taught you how to toe the line...pun intended.
You know you grew up Latino when your family's schedule revolved around the air times of their favorite telenovelas. Your abuela's tears during a dramatic episode were as gripping as the overly shocking on-screen action.
This elusive term could mean in five minutes, five hours, or even five days. This vague time frame was somehow universally understood, but only added to the confusion of our non-Latino friends.
Photography by Culinaria Nativa del TatamĂĄ
The tantalizing smell of a simmering pot of sancocho filling the house on a Sunday was the epitome of comfort and family time. It didn't matter if the weather was 100 degrees outside - sancocho was a year-round delight. If you're Mexican, substitute for caldo, pozole, or menudo.
Photography by David
The thrill of smashing what took hours of painstaking work to create beautifully decorated, confetti-filled eggs on the heads of unsuspecting cousins during Easter celebrations. The glitter aftermath? Priceless.
Conversations with your tĂas could sometimes feel like you're in a telenovela, complete with dramatic plot twists, excessive hand gestures, and long pauses for effect.
Promotional poster for "Cucuy the Boogieman" movie
Forget the boogeyman, these legendary creatures were the ones who kept you in check during your childhood. Their tales were the classic scare tactics, cautioning you against staying out too late or not going to bed on time.
Before there were fancy scented candles, there was Fabuloso. This cleaning product was the perfume of your home, leaving an undeniable smell of a clean house.
Merengue, Salsa, Bachata, Cumbias, Rancheras...you were probably dancing before you could walk. From family gatherings to Christmas parties, dancing wasn't just expected; it was required.
Photography by James Salvas
Any large gathering meant you were going home with a random assortment of Tupperware filled with leftovers, from arroz con pollo to frijoles negros.
Saturday morning cleaning sessions weren't complete without a booming soundtrack of Latin hits. The louder Marc Anthony or Marco Antonio Solis sang, the faster you mopped. And if you were trying to sleep in, the more you wondered if you'd ever be able to actually get some extra sleep on the weekend.
Sweet sixteen wasn't a thing. It was a grand quinceañera - a dazzling celebration of culture, family, and the journey to womanhood, or nada.
Coffee wasn't just a morning beverage; it was a rite of passage. Sipping on the strong, sweet elixir as a family, often accompanied by pan dulce, was an experience that shaped your mornings and energized your day.
The art of lingering around the table after a meal, sharing stories, and cracking jokes. A simple dinner could easily extend into the wee hours of the night.
Arriving "fashionably late" was just a normal part of family gatherings. An invitation for 6 PM? It was universally understood that meant 7 PM or later.
News traveled faster than light in your family. Before you even got a chance to announce something, everyone already knew. The chisme express was always running. From engagements to pregnancy announcements, your family was the original social media.
A house full of religious icons, saints, and the ever-watchful ojo protector. Your childhood was a blend of Catholicism and ancient superstitions.
Photography by Mark Hodson
Family road trips weren't just for your immediate family. They also included cousins, aunts, uncles, and sometimes even neighbors. And donât forget, everyone always brought enough food to feed a small village and hand-me-downs to give away.
Above all, the loudness wasn't just about volume. It was about passion, vibrancy, and love. From booming laughter to fiery debates, everything was done full-heartedly.
Here's to the loving chaos, the unforgettable memories, and the strong sense of community and tradition that is growing up Latino.
Photo by Ugur Arpaci on UnsplashThe roots of Carnival can be traced back to Europe, where pre-Lenten festivals were celebrated as a way to indulge before the 40-day fasting period of Lent. The festival, introduced by Spanish and Portuguese conquistadors in the 16th and 17th centuries, was originally a religious and seasonal celebration marking the end of winter and the transition into spring. However, when Carnival was introduced in the Americas, it quickly evolved under the influence of all the different cultures of the region.
Indigenous communities incorporated their own rituals and symbolism into the festivities, often blending them with Catholic traditions. African influences were introduced through the rhythms, dances, and masquerade traditions of enslaved people brought to the continent. Over time, these elements merged, transforming Carnival into an expression of identity, joy, and even resistance, with each country developing its own unique interpretation of the celebration. For example, in Brazil, the blending of European, African, and indigenous cultures can be seen in the samba music, feathered costumes, and dance styles of the Rio Carnival.
Carnival became a form of cultural resistance and awakening, particularly in the Caribbean, where it contributed to cultural decolonization and political independence. In many places, Carnival was a way for oppressed communities to subvert social order and express freedom.
Photo by Daniel Lloyd Blunk-FernĂĄndez on UnsplashThe fusion of cultures in Latin American Carnival is evident in its music, dance, costumes, and spiritual traditions, which reflect a diverse heritage. The rhythms of samba in Brazil, soca in Trinidad, cumbia in Colombia, murga in Argentina, and Andean pan flute in Bolivia all stem from African influences blended with European instruments and indigenous beats.
Elaborate costumes and masks, rooted in African masquerade traditions, add layers of symbolism that often merge Catholic and Andean mythologies. Beyond the spectacle, Carnival also carries spiritual significance in many Latin American countries, including Bolivia and Brazil.
Though tied to Catholic traditions, Carnival has evolved into a broader reflection of Latin American spirituality and identity. Itâs why each country has its unique traditions that reflect its unique history and cultural diversity:
Photo by Jordy Neves
Brazil's Carnival is the most famous in the world. Rio de Janeiro hosts extravagant samba parades featuring giant floats and thousands of dancers. Salvadorâs Carnival, on the other hand, is known for its African influences, particularly in its blocos afro (street groups) and trios elĂ©tricos (musical trucks) that take the festivities beyond the parade route and into the cityâs streets.
Photo by CAMILOFORE2 - Wikimedia Commons
The Barranquilla Carnival, the second-largest in the world, is a UNESCO-recognized festival that highlights Colombiaâs cultural diversity. The Batalla de Flores (Battle of Flowers) marks the beginning of the celebration, featuring elaborate floats, traditional dance performances, and music such as vallenato and cumbia. The festivities end with the Burial of Joselito Carnaval, symbolizing a return to everyday life.
Photo By Rotcivrosas - Trabajo propio, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Carnival of Oruro in Bolivia is one of the most spiritually significant, featuring the Diablada, or Dance of the Devils. Itâs also one of UNESCO's Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. This dramatic performance, which includes hundreds of masked dancers, tells the story of the battle between good and evil, mixing Catholic and Andean religious perspectives. The festival reflects Boliviaâs Indigenous heritage, where the storytelling traditions of the Andean people really shine.
hozinja, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ecuadorâs Carnival incorporates both Catholic and indigenous traditions, mainly through the Pawkar Raymi festival, which celebrates the Andean New Year. One of the things that make the Ecuadorian Carnival stand out is the tradition of throwing water, flour, and even colored powders at participantsâa practice rooted in indigenous purification rituals.
TitiNicola, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Argentinaâs GualeguaychĂș Carnival is one of the countryâs most well-known celebrations. It features elaborate parades that rival those of Brazil. Argentinaâs Carnival is also known for murga, a street theater tradition in which performers use music, satire, and dance to comment on political and social issues. The performances are highly energetic and rooted in working-class culture.
LHommeDuMonde, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
UNESCO has recognized El Callao's Carnival as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is Venezuelaâs most vibrant and popular celebration. The roots of the Carnival can be traced to its Afro-descendant population, specifically the communities of enslaved Afro-Venezuelans and working-class immigrants from Trinidad who labored in the gold mining region of El Callao. The Carnival runs from January to March and features parades and concerts, where thousands of people take to the streets.
Idobi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Dominican Carnival includes elements of African heritage and European masquerade traditions, with CalifĂ© as one of the most recognizable figures. CalifĂ© is a satirical character who mocks politicians and public figures. It originated in the 1940s and was created by a tin worker named Inocencio MartĂnez and delivers poetic, theatrical commentary on current political, social, and cultural issues. By combining artistic expression with social commentary in this way, the Dominican Republic's Carnival uses festivity as a means of cultural resistance, celebration, and critique.
Jorge MejĂa peralta from Managua, Nicaragua, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Carnival is not just a great time, itâs an expression of cultural identity and history. Across Latin America, it has transcended its religious origins to become a moment of collective celebration, artistic expression, and even activism, with each country bringing its own perspective.
For many, Carnival represents a time when the barriers of social class, race, and history momentarily dissolve, making space for shared traditions and community. It highlights Latinos' ability to embrace their complex history and transform it into something joyful, beautiful, and uniquely their own.
So, whether itâs the grand spectacle of Rio or the intimate traditions of a small town like El Callao in Venezuela, Carnival is a celebration of heritage and Latin American spirit.
