About
Carmela is an award-winning storyteller, illustrator, wife, and mother from San Jose, California. Her book series Little Katie introduces the whimsical world of STEAM for kids. Her other series, The Adventures of Lorenzo the Bear, teaches children about compassion and friendship. In addition, Carmela has recently finished her debut novel, A Murder Most Fowl. The first book in a new food truck cozy murder mystery series, full of sharp humor, entertaining characters, and tasty treats with a side of murder.
Little Katie made its debut in 2016 and has grown into something larger than Carmela ever anticipated. To date, her STEAM picture book series has won ten literary awards and four honorable mentions. Little Katie will continue to grow and expand, covering all the topics in the STEAM field. With so much to learn and explore, the possibilities for this series are endless. Carmela strongly believes and often says, 'Literature can open up a whole new world to children.' She firmly believes that children's literature is one of the best platforms to introduce children to all that life offers.
Further, she believes that STEAM is the 21st century. The need for people to work in these fields is imminent. She thinks we need more diversity in the people who are in STEAM fields. The best way to introduce children, especially girls, is through compelling storytelling. Having never outgrown fairytales, she sees STEAM as a maze of stories and wants to hear more diverse voices in that world.
Awards
