Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico follows an adventurous service dog as he journeys to Puerto Rico, exploring the colorful streets, sampling the local cuisine, and immersing himself in the island’s culture. What was the inspiration for your story?

Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico was inspired by my beloved service dog, Valentino, who brought so much joy, healing, and light into my life. After his passing, I wanted to keep his memory alive in ways that would uplift others, especially children and families.

I’m also proudly Puerto Rican, and my culture is such a big part of who I am. I wanted to create a story that celebrates the beauty of Puerto Rico — its vibrant streets, music, traditions, and food — through the eyes of a curious, loving service dog. It felt meaningful to blend my personal story with my cultural roots, and to show readers, especially young ones, that adventure, kindness, and discovery can heal hearts in the most unexpected ways.

At its core, this book is a love letter to both Valentino and my island. It’s a way to honor the resilience of my people, the magic of our homeland, and the loyal companions who walk beside us, often becoming the quiet heroes in our everyday lives.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

One of the most important ideas I wanted to share in Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico is the value of embracing your culture and heritage with pride. I wanted young readers, especially those from Puerto Rican or Caribbean backgrounds, to see themselves, their traditions, and their beautiful island reflected in a story filled with joy, adventure, and warmth.

Through Valentino’s eyes, readers get to see how love, kindness, and curiosity can lead to unexpected adventures and deep connections with others.

Lastly, I wanted to encourage children to be open to new experiences — whether it’s trying a new food, exploring a different place, or learning about a new culture. Life’s most beautiful lessons often come when we’re brave enough to step outside our comfort zones.

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

I had so much fun writing the scene where Valentino visits the colorful streets of Old San Juan. Describing the cobblestone streets, the vibrant buildings, the lively music in the air — it brought back so many beautiful memories of my own trips there. I especially enjoyed imagining Valentino’s reactions to the local cuisine.

Writing his excitement, curiosity, and little misadventures made me smile. It felt like bringing him to life again in a place that means so much to me. I think readers will feel that same sense of joy and wonder when they read those moments.

Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Valentino and the direction of the next book?

I’m very excited about the next chapter in Valentino’s journey. The upcoming book is titled Valentino’s Courageous Adventure: The Military Move. This story follows Valentino, a brave service dog, as he faces a big life change when his family receives military orders to move — a situation many families experience, but one that isn’t often explored in children’s books.

It’s a rhyming story about bravery, hope, and finding new adventures in unexpected places. Readers will experience how Valentino feels about leaving behind the familiar, meeting new friends, and discovering that courage and resilience can turn big changes into exciting opportunities.

There will be new characters, new places, and of course, a little mischief along the way! My goal is to offer comfort to children going through similar transitions by showing that even when life changes, love, friendship, and adventure always follow close behind.

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