Christina Diaz Gonzalez
Courtesy of Michelle Nicole Photography (Christina Diaz Gonzalez); Shutterstock.com (background)
Dare to Be Different
In her latest books, author Christina Diaz Gonzalez celebrates what makes each of us unique.
Christina Diaz Gonzalez grew up in a small town in Florida. Her parents are Cuban, and she was the only Spanish-speaking kid in the area. She rarely found characters like herself in books. She decided to change that in the books she writes.
Her graphic novels Invisible and Offside tell the stories of Hispanic middle school kids who come from very different backgrounds. Diaz Gonzalez recently spoke to Scholastic News about the importance of seeing each person as an individual.
Scholastic News: What’s the main message you wanted to share in Invisible?
Christina Diaz Gonzalez: The outside world in Invisible sees these kids who either speak Spanish or have a Spanish last name and just lumps them all together. But the fact that you speak the same language doesn’t mean you have the same upbringing or culture. It’s important to look past labels.
SN: Why did you include both Spanish and English in your books?
CDG: Many kids either speak both languages or are learning English. They’re really not showcased in books. I was also mindful that some readers might not understand Spanish, so I wanted to include an English translation. In the end, whether you speak English or Spanish, you’re reading the same book.
SN: What do you hope kids get out of your books?
CDG: I hope they get an enjoyment of reading. I also hope they take with them the idea that we can be more than just one thing. Don’t limit yourself. Be open to all the possibilities.
NOTE: This interview has been edited and shortened.
Scholastic Inc.
