Author Description

The Where We Grow series is designed to introduce culture and foster kindness as a way of life. This series opens with three girls from three different cultures: The Story of Gigi from France, The Story of Gabriella from Mexico, and The Story of Zara from Iran. Each is meant to inspire children to explore people from other cultures different than their own, and to approach that learning with an openness, acceptance, and curiosity. The Where We Grow series is also intended to serve as a tool to help children begin to think about their own cultural customs. Gabriella is a little girl living in Mexico. Her story opens with watercolor images of Mexico's glorious beaches, artwork, music, and well-known traditions. When Gabriella has a party celebrating her seventh birthday, she helps a shy friend meet others and overcome her insecurities. Images of the children playing the game of pinata bring the story to its culmination.