Latina Children’s Book Author, Storyteller, and Cultural Voice
Children’s Book Author | Latina Storyteller | Homeschool Mom | San Antonio Writer
Meet Steena Hernandez—a talented writer, avid reader, and lifelong dreamer who calls San Antonio, Texas, home. Steena is a proud Mexican-American author who brings
her rich culture, family values, and love of the arts to the world of children’s literature. As a homeschool mom of two energetic children, she believes in the power of storytelling to inspire and uplift.
From Stage to Story: A Journey in the Arts
Before becoming a published author, Steena spent much of her life performing as a singer and dancer. Her journey included national tours with RENT: The Broadway Tour and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. During these experiences, Steena journaled her travels and creative adventures, planting the seeds for the stories she now shares with young readers.
With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Texas Tech University, she also taught Theatre Arts in middle and high schools—another chapter in her mission to inspire creativity in young minds.
A Voice for Representation in Children’s Books
Steena Hernandez is a member of SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) and Las Musas Books, a collective of Latinx children’s book authors. Her poetry and short stories have been published in Highlights High Five and Little Thoughts Press Magazine.
Her writing blends her cultural heritage with real-life experiences, highlighting the importance of diversity, self-expression, and belonging in children’s literature.
Featured Book: Lupita’s Brown Ballet Slippers
Steena’s award-winning debut picture book, Lupita’s Brown Ballet Slippers, tells the empowering story of a young Latina dancer preparing for her big recital. Everything is perfect—except her peachy pink ballet slippers don’t match her skin tone. Determined to feel seen and confident, Lupita takes creative steps to make her shoes hers.
Book Themes:
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Diversity in ballet
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Representation in children’s literature
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Cultural identity
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Self-expression and empowerment
Inspired by Steena’s experiences as a dancer, this charming picture book teaches young readers about inclusion, determination, and the importance of being proud of who you are.
Awards and Honors:
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🏆 2024 Northern Lights Book Award – Arts Category
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📚 2025 Notable Social Studies Trade Book
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📝 Longlisted for the 2025 Pedro and Daniel Intersectionality Book Award
Why Steena Hernandez’s Work Matters
Steena Hernandez is part of a growing movement of Latina authors in children’s publishing who use their voices to reflect the beauty of diverse cultures and lived experiences. Her work encourages all children—especially those from underrepresented communities—to see themselves in the pages of books.
Whether writing, homeschooling, or connecting with readers, Steena continues to uplift her community one heartfelt story at a time.
