This week, we’re highlighting the incredibly inspiring Cuban-American author Meg Medina. I relate to her because I, too, mine my experiences to bring characters to life, infusing them with authenticity. Merci, in Medina’s book series, has a lazy eye, a condition we both share, and that has shaped my life and made me who I am. I learned of Meg Medina through this series and am so happy to have gotten to know the author through her books. But without further ado, here are ten lesser-known facts about this remarkable author:

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1. Early Career and Diverse Background

Before becoming a full-time writer, Medina had a varied career. She worked as a teacher, community organizer, and marketing executive. These experiences enriched her understanding of social issues and communities, which later influenced her writing.

2. Influence of Personal Experiences

Her personal experiences and family history deeply influence many of Medina’s stories. Her grandparents’ immigration stories from Cuba and her upbringing in a multicultural neighborhood in Queens, New York, provide rich backdrops for her narratives.

3. Writing Inspirations

Medina often draws inspiration from her own life and the lives of those around her. For instance, the character Merci Suárez from “Merci Suárez Changes Gears” is partially inspired by her own middle school experiences and the dynamics within her extended family.

4. Bilingual Writing

Medina is bilingual and incorporates Spanish into her writing, reflecting her heritage and making her work more accessible to Spanish-speaking readers. This bilingual aspect of her writing is an integral part of her storytelling style.

5. Advocacy for Diverse Books

Medina is a vocal advocate for diversity in children’s literature. She actively participates in initiatives and organizations that promote the inclusion of diverse voices in publishing. She has been involved with the We Need Diverse Books movement, which aims to address the lack of diversity in children’s literature.

6. Workshops and Teaching

In addition to her writing, Medina conducts writing workshops and teaches creative writing. She has mentored aspiring writers, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, helping them find their voices and tell their stories.

7. Community Engagement

Medina’s commitment to community extends beyond her writing. She has worked with various community organizations to promote literacy and education, particularly in underserved communities. Her efforts aim to inspire young people to read, write, and engage with literature.

8. Recognition in the Literary Community

While her major awards are well-documented, Medina has received numerous accolades from regional and local literary organizations. These recognitions highlight her impact on a broad spectrum of readers and her contributions to the literary community at multiple levels.

9. Influence of Cuban Culture

Cuban culture plays a significant role in Medina’s life and work. Her books often include elements of Cuban traditions, food, music, and language, providing readers with a rich cultural experience. This cultural authenticity is a hallmark of her storytelling.

10. Personal Connection to Characters

Medina often mentions in interviews how she forms personal connections with her characters, viewing them as extensions of her own experiences or the experiences of people she knows. This personal investment adds depth and authenticity to her characters and their journeys.