Be Bold! Be Brave!: 11 Latinas Who Made U.S. History

Winner of the International Latino Book Award for Best Nonfiction Picture Book 2020
A 2021-2022 TEJAS Star Reading List Pick. Moonbeam Gold Award 2020.

Explore the lives of 11 Latinas who made U.S. history through their courage, leadership, and resilience.

Be Bold! Be Brave! 11 Latinas Who Made U.S. History is an inspiring bilingual (English/Spanish) picture book that celebrates 11 trailblazing Latinas who made their mark in medicine, science, sports, the arts, journalism, and politics. Told in lively, rhyming verse, each true biographical story helps young readers connect with these role models and their remarkable journeys. Featured figures include Rita Moreno (Oscar winner), LIsa Fernandez (Olympic Gold Medalist), Selena Quintanilla (Queen of Tejano), Ellen Ochoa (the first Latina astronaut), Pura Belpre (Trailblazing Librarian), Sonia Sotomayor (the first Latina Supreme Court Justice), Maria Hinojosa (Journalist), Antonia Novello (the first female U.S. Surgeon General), Judy Baca (Muralist), Hida Solis (Politician), and Dolores Huerta (Activist).

The Little Biographies for Bright Minds™ series is an inspiring nonfiction collection that highlights influential historical figures of Latin American heritage who helped shape the United States and the world. Each title includes beautiful illustrations and exciting stories presented in a side-by-side bilingual format.

• Empowering and educational: Celebrates the real-life accomplishments of 11 Latinas who made U.S. history—perfect for inspiring young readers to dream big.
• Ideal for classroom and library use: A valuable resource for lessons on women’s history, Latinx heritage, and character education.
• Bilingual side-by-side text (English/Spanish): Supports language learning and serves both English- and Spanish-speaking readers in diverse classrooms and homes.
• Highlights underrepresented role models: Features Latinas in science, medicine, politics, arts, and beyond—filling a critical gap in mainstream children’s books.
• Written by an authentic Latina voice: Created by Mexican-American journalist and author Naibe Reynoso, whose mission is to amplify underrepresented stories in children’s literature.
• Told in engaging rhyming verse: Makes complex achievements accessible and memorable for early readers.
• Vibrant, eye-catching illustrations: Brings each trailblazer’s story to life, sparking curiosity and connection.
• Part of a broader mission-driven series: Belongs to Little Biographies for Bright Minds™, a series dedicated to uplifting voices from the Latin American community.

Themes for Classroom Learning / Library & Bookseller Displays:W

• Women’s History Month – March
• Highlights the powerful contributions of Latinas in U.S. history across various fields.
• Hispanic Heritage Month – September 15 to October 15
• Celebrates Latinx culture, heritage, and historical impact.
• International Day of the Girl – October 11
• Empowers young girls by showcasing female role models and leaders.
• Bilingual Education Month – October
• Supports Spanish-English language development through accessible, dual-language storytelling.
• Companion materials: Educator guide and bilingual activity sheets for extended learning.
• STEM & Arts in Education
• Features Latinas in science, medicine, the arts, politics, and journalism—ideal for STEAM classroom integration.
• Social Studies & History Integration
• Fits seamlessly into units on U.S. history, civil rights, and influential historical figures.
• SEL: Confidence, Resilience, and Representation
• Promotes self-esteem, cultural pride, and the importance of seeing oneself in books.
• Role Models & Career Exploration for Youth
• Sparks conversations about future goals and introduces students to diverse paths to success.
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Displays
• A vital addition to book collections that highlight underrepresented voices and inspire social impact.

Naibe Reynoso is a Mexican-American, Multi-Emmy award-winning journalist and author based in Los Angeles, California. She is the founder of Con Todo Press, a mission driven company that publishes award-winning books that amplify the stories of Latinos and other underrepresented communities. She is the mom of two children, Giselle and Brayden.

Jone Leal, also known as “jonewho” is a Venezuelan illustrator who loves to work with children's book illustrations and women empowerment. She has over 5 years of experience in the area. When she's not drawing, you can find her sewing while listening to her favorite music. She also illustrated “Be Bold! Be Brave! 11 Latinas who made U.S. History.” Clients include Con Todo Press, OwlCrateJr, Young Authors Publishing, OddPieces and Familius Publishing. To see more of her work visit jonewho.com or follow her on Instagram @jonewho.