Mayra Hernandez

Children’s book author Mayra Hernandez has always found joy in reading, enjoying the feeling of escape a great book gives her. She saw this same joy in children as a former teacher’s assistant when her students would read books in the classroom. Mayra knew she wanted to be a part of that, so it seemed like fate; when Mayra shared stories of her silly pets at work, a co-worker suggested she write them all down. Like a puzzle connected so perfectly, her desire to be a part of the joy a book brings to those who read it, her pets–and her colleague–inspired her to begin writing. So she penned a wonderfully silly picture book about her pets’ shenanigans, My Cat Brother, Sterling.

Mayra thinks a great book is relatable to readers with experiences in the story that they can connect with. She hopes her young readers enjoy her story but also that they come away understanding that it’s okay to feel conflicted about things in our lives, just as Rocky felt.

Mayra has always had a love for animals, growing up with cats, dogs, birds, a mouse, and even had a rescued squirrel at one point. Her dream is to open up a sanctuary for pets who do not have homes and give them a chance at a happy, healthy, and loving life.

Mayra loves watching true crime shows, spending time with her fur babies, and having family game nights. Mayra and her husband, Angel, live in Florida, with their dog, Rocky, and three cats, Katie, Pumpkin, and Sterling, of course.