Illustrator & Author Profile
Derek Desierto
9 Books
Derek Desierto is an author and illustrator known for his vibrant, fashion-forward visual style in children's picture books. He frequently collaborates with author Eva Chen, providing the celebrated artwork for the bestselling 'Juno Valentine' series and 'A Is for Awesome!'. Desierto also writes and illustrates his own original stories, including the critically acclaimed picture book 'Oddbird'.
It is an incredibly hot day, and all the fancy birds are gathered around the cooling water. They wish they could jump in, but they are too worried about ruining their beautiful, fine feathers. Oddbird does not care about his feathers at all. He just wants to go for a refreshing swim! There is only one problem. The other birds do not want him around because he is not colorful or fancy like they are. He is just different. You will love watching how Oddbird figures out a clever way to join the fun while staying completely true to himself. This funny and cheerful story celebrates exactly what makes you unique and shows why it is always best to just be yourself.
6-8 Years
19 Pages
Henri Matisse has always loved bright, beautiful colors. More than anything else, he dreams of becoming a real artist. Even when his father pushes him to study for a more serious job, Henri decides to follow his heart and attend art school instead. Soon, his life is filled with the vibrant colors he loves so much. But when a terrible illness leaves him weak, Henri can no longer paint the way he used to. He has to completely reinvent his artistic process. By using scissors and colorful paper, what he creates next becomes even more magical than before. This inspiring true story brings the journey of a legendary artist to life. It will show you how creativity and determination can help you overcome any challenge and fill the world with color.
6-8 Years
22 Pages
Oddbird has always done just fine on his own, but lately, something feels missing. He is ready for a family to call his own. You might know what it is like to want a special group of people who understand and love you just the way you are. When his good friends secretly plan a wonderful surprise for him, Oddbird makes a heartwarming discovery. He realizes that a true family does not always have to look the same, and that he is already surrounded by those who care deeply for him. This touching story celebrates the beauty of chosen families and the joy of finding where you truly belong. It is a perfect read for anyone who knows that love is what makes a family.
6-8 Years
19 Pages
The Story of Jimmy Choo, Shoemaker to a Princess
Step into the fascinating world of design with the true story of Jimmy Choo. Growing up on the island of Penang, Jimmy learns the art of shoemaking right by his father's side. He carefully crafts everything from comfortable loafers to elegant slippers. When he grows older, Jimmy travels all the way to London to study shoemaking during the day and learn English at night. Nothing comes easy for him in a new country, but he works incredibly hard to open his very own shop. Soon, his brilliant designs catch the eye of the London fashion world. One day, he receives a phone call from a very famous customer. Princess Diana wants Jimmy to design shoes just for her! This inspiring biography shows how dedication and creativity can make your biggest dreams come true.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
Open up the most mysterious closet you have ever seen and try on a pair of truly magical shoes! Juno Valentine is just a regular kid, until she discovers that stepping into the right pair of shoes can transport her to completely different times and places. You will journey along with Juno as she tries out the footwear of some of the most famous and inspiring women in history. Every new pair brings a completely different adventure, letting Juno see the world through the eyes of brilliant creators and brave leaders. Try on a new perspective, explore unknown worlds, and find out what kind of incredible footsteps you might want to leave behind in your own favorite shoes.
6-8 Years
Throw out your standard alphabet and get ready for a completely awesome way to learn your letters! Forget about simple apples and boring balls. You are about to zoom from A to Z alongside some of the bravest and boldest women who ever lived. You will soar through the skies with fearless pilots, stand up for what is right with courageous judges, and sing your heart out with music legends. Every single letter unlocks a new story about a hero who changed the world. This fast-paced journey will show you that history is packed with incredible people, and by the time you reach the very end, you will realize that the most extraordinary letter of all is the one that stands for you.
6-8 Years
17 Pages
Did you know that millions of grandmothers from the past all led to one very special person? That person is you! Everyone has two grandmas, and each of those grandmas had two grandmas of their own. This amazing cycle continues going all the way back through history. You needed every single one of them in order to be born. Travel from generation to generation and see how daily life has changed for families over the years. But no matter what time period you visit, one thing always remains exactly the same: a grandmother's wonderful love. This delightful and funny book explores family history, generation after generation. It is the perfect story to read and share with your own grandma as you celebrate the strong family tree that created you.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
Grab your favorite paintbrush and get ready to explore history through the colors of the rainbow! Awesome achievements do not just happen in black and white. They come in bright ruby red slippers worn by movie stars, crisp white suits worn by leaders, and deep blue baseball uniforms worn by sports heroes. You will travel through time to meet inspiring women who stood up, stood out, and changed the world, all while showing off their true colors. Every page pops with vibrant art and bold style, introducing you to rule breakers and history makers. It is time to discover how colorful courage can be and find out which shade of awesome matches your own unique spirit.
6-8 Years
13 Pages
School picture day is finally here, and Juno Valentine is facing a massive fashion emergency! Her mom is pushing for bright flower patterns, and her dad wants her to wear a wild outfit with rainbow ruffles. Juno is completely stuck, but her morning is about to get much more complicated. Her little brother Finn suddenly vanishes into a magical hall of shoes, and Juno must chase him down. You will sprint through time right alongside Juno, meeting amazing heroes like champion gymnasts, famous actors, sharp shooters, and first ladies. They will help Juno search for her brother and give her the confidence to pick an outfit that perfectly shows off exactly who she is.
6-8 Years
19 Pages
