Juana Martinez-Neal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Juana Martinez-Neal
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Juana Martinez-Neal in 2016
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| Born | Lima, Peru |
| Occupation | Children's author, illustrator |
| Nationality | American, Peruvian |
| Genre | Children's fantasy |
| Relatives | Victor Martínez Gómez (father), Victor Martinez Malaga (grandfather) |
Juana Martinez-Neal is a talented author and illustrator of children's books. She was born in Peru and now lives in the United States. Her first book, Alma and How She Got Her Name, was very popular and won a special award called the Caldecott Honor in 2019.
About Juana Martinez-Neal
Her Early Life and Journey
Juana Martinez-Neal was born and grew up in Lima, Peru. When she was young, she dreamed of becoming a painter. This was because her father and grandfather were both painters. Being an illustrator was not a common job in Peru at that time.
She moved to the United States when she was in her mid-20s. After she had her own children, she decided to become an author and illustrator. She wanted to create books for young readers. Today, she lives in Connecticut with her husband and three children.
Awards and Special Recognitions
Juana Martinez-Neal has won several important awards for her books. These awards celebrate the best children's books and illustrations.
- 2018 Pura Belpré Illustrator Winner – for her work on La Princesa and the Pea. This award honors Latino writers and illustrators.
- 2019 Caldecott Honor – for Alma and How She Got Her Name. The Caldecott is one of the most famous awards for children's picture books.
- 2019 Ezra Jack Keats Award Writer Honor – for Alma and How She Got Her Name. This award recognizes new authors and illustrators.
- 2020 Sibert Medal – for Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story. The Sibert Medal is given for the most distinguished informational book for children.
