Heart Wisdom: Awesome Latinx

What can we learn from the stories, courage, creativity, and accomplishments of extraordinary Latinx people? In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, this heartfelt author conversation invites us to honor the rich diversity of Latinx communities, explore the power of representation, and celebrate the people—past and present—whose lives and contributions inspire us. Our guest authors, Edward Dennis, creator of "The Boy from Mexico" children’s book series, and Mirtle Peña-Calderón, co-author of "The Book of Awesome Latinas," will share stories and insights about heritage, identity, immigration, belonging, and the importance of seeing ourselves—and one another—more fully. Through books that uplift Latinx voices and experiences, Edward and Mirtle remind us that stories matter! Join us to find out what's possible when children and adults see their cultures, families, and experiences reflected in the books they read? Brenda Knight, co-founder of Books That Save Lives, will also join the panel, offering perspective from her decades of publishing and community-building work. The conversation will be facilitated by Sherry Richert Belul, author of "The Love List of a Lifetime" and "Say It Now," known for her warm and heartfelt approach to connection, reflection, and meaningful living. Since March 2020, Brenda Knight and Sherry Richert Belul have hosted the Heart Wisdom Author Panels to offer insight, comfort, and connection during times of uncertainty. What began as a response to a challenging moment has grown into an ongoing space for thoughtful conversation. These are challenging and complicated times. We are here to support one another. Edward Dennis Edward Dennis is a Mexican American author, illustrator, artist, and former special education teacher who is passionate about helping children celebrate their heritage and recognize that their stories matter. He is the creator of "The Boy from Mexico" children’s book series, including "The Boy from Mexico: An Immigration Story of Bravery and Determination," "The Boy from Mexico Becomes a Farmworker," and "The Boy from Mexico Becomes a US Citizen." Inspired by his own family’s history, Edward’s books explore immigration, courage, identity, and the valuable contributions of immigrants and farmworkers. Through his vibrant art and heartfelt storytelling, he helps Latinx children see themselves represented while encouraging empathy and understanding among readers of all backgrounds. Mirtle Peña-Calderón Mirtle Peña-Calderón is a Latina journalist, editor, author, and the founder of Latinidad Collective, a storytelling platform centered on culture, community, mental health, and the everyday experiences of Latino and Latine people. She is the co-author, with Ashley K. Stoyanov Ojeda, of "The Book of Awesome Latinas: Inspiring Stories and Bios of Hispanic and Latin Women Throughout History," a collection celebrating 74 remarkable Hispanic, Latin, and Indigenous women who broke barriers and created change. Through her writing and editorial work, Mirtle amplifies underrepresented voices and explores how honest, culturally grounded storytelling can help people understand who they are, honor where they come from, and know they are not alone. Brenda Knight Books That Save Lives co-founder, Brenda Knight, began her career at HarperCollins working with luminaries Paolo Coelho, Marianne Williamson and Huston Smith. Brenda served as Publisher/Editorial Director at Mango Publishing for nine years. She was awarded IndieFab’s "Publisher of the Year" in 2014 by the American Library Association and she previously served as president of the Women’s National Book Association, SF Chapter. She is the author of "Random Acts of Kindness," "Wild Women and Books," "The Book of Abundance," and many more. Sherry Richert Belul Sherry Richert Belul is the founder of Simply Celebrate and author of "The Love List of a Lifetime" and "Say It Now." She helps people discover creative, heartfelt ways to celebrate life, deepen connection, and express love—while also guiding people to plan for end-of-life in ways that bring meaning, ease, and even moments of joy. Whether she’s leading a workshop, hosting a kindness mission, or speaking at events, Sherry’s message is simple: love out loud, celebrate often, and make moments that matter.