Episode 22: Community, Culture, and Connection with Karol Hernandez

Episode 22 of Bilingual Book Buddies is here!

In this episode, we sit down with author Karol Hernández to talk about her vibrant debut picture book, I Am La Chiva!: The Colorful Bus of the Andes—a joyful celebration of community, culture, and connection.

Karol shares how her childhood in Colombia, memories of her family’s market, and a sweet moment with her son during the pandemic inspired this story. What began as a story just for him became a beautiful book that now invites children everywhere to experience the rhythm, color, and heart of the Andes.

We also talk about:

Writing from memory and cultural roots

Bringing authentic Latin American experiences to young readers

The real-life inspiration behind the iconic “chiva” bus

The power of storytelling to build connection and belonging

This is a conversation full of warmth, heritage, and the magic of stories that travel across languages and generations.

Tune in and take a ride on La Chiva with us!

#BilingualBookBuddies #ChildrensBooks #LatinxAuthors #PictureBooks #DualLanguage #KidLit #IAmLaChiva

Connect with Karol Hernandez:

Instagram: @karolitadotcom

Facebook: KarolitaDotCom

X (Twitter): ⁨@karolitadotcom⁩

Meet Your Hosts:

Alicia Salazar –

Mexican American children’s author and former elementary school teacher. Author of the Camila the Star series, Alicia crafts stories that empower young readers.

Website: alicia-salazar.com

Facebook: Alicia Salazar Author

Instagram: @albricias123

Claudia Sloan –

Mexican American artist, author, and illustrator known for her whimsical children’s books like Grey Ghost Mischief and 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’s librarian. Silvia’s books, including Uno Más, One More: A Latino Retelling of an Old Scottish Ballad, and Queen of Tejano Music: Selena, highlight cultural heritage and diversity.

Website: silvialopezbooks.comInstagram: @silvialopezbooks

Facebook: Silvia.Lopez.Writes

About Bilingual Book Buddies:

Bilingual Book Buddies is a podcast dedicated to celebrating bilingual children’s literature. Each episode features conversations with authors, illustrators, and many others involved in bringing bilingual books to life.

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