Luz Maria Mack is a Dominican-American author whose books "Bachatica" and "¡Pequeña María descubre su baile!" celebrate Dominican and Afro-Caribbean identity through dance, music, bilingual storytelling, and self-expression. With June being Caribbean American Heritage Month, it's a great month to check these books out!
Born in Villa Mella, Dominican Republic, raised in Washington Heights, and now based in the South Bronx, Luz brings a unique perspective on preserving culture for younger generations while helping children see themselves reflected positively in literature. The animated adaptation of "¡Pequeña María descubre su baile!" earned Best Animated Short Film recognition at Bridge Fest and later aired on PBS's "Chat & Learn". She's also working on a new book now (dropping in Oct).
I had a chance to learn more in this interview.
What inspired you to become an author?
When my daughter Chloe was three years old, she asked me a question that changed my life:
"Mommy, can you make me blonde?"
As a Dominican mother married to a Black husband, hearing those words broke my heart. Chloe was trying to understand where she fit in. In 2015, when I looked for books that reflected a little girl like her, I couldn't find any.
That moment inspired me to start creating stories that helped my daughter feel seen, valued, and proud of who she is. What began as bedtime storytelling became a mission to create culturally relevant books that celebrate diverse children, families, and traditions. I wanted Chloe and children like her to know that they belong exactly as they are.
Why is representation important in children's literature?
Representation helps children see themselves as important, capable, and worthy of being celebrated. When children find characters who look like them, share their experiences, or come from similar cultures, they feel seen and understood. Books also help children learn about people different from themselves, building empathy and connection.
Why should kids read Bachatica, even if they aren't interested in dance?
While Bachatica introduces children to the Dominican tradition of bachata, the heart of the story is much bigger than dance. It is about self-confidence, family, culture, and learning to embrace who you are. The message is simple: you do not have to be like anyone else to shine. Whether a child loves dance, sports, art, or science, the story encourages them to celebrate their own unique journey.
How is dance a form of cultural preservation?
Dance carries stories, traditions, and history from one generation to the next. Bachata is a beloved Dominican art form enjoyed around the world, yet there are very few children's books that introduce young readers to its cultural roots. Bachatica helps preserve this tradition by sharing it with children in a way that is joyful, accessible, and meaningful.
What are the benefits of bilingual storytelling?
Bilingual storytelling helps children develop language skills while strengthening their connection to culture and family. It allows children to see the value of speaking more than one language and creates opportunities for families to read together across generations. It also helps all readers appreciate different languages and cultures, fostering understanding and inclusion.
When my daughter Chloe was three years old, she asked me a question that changed my life:
"Mommy, can you make me blonde?"
As a Dominican mother married to a Black husband, hearing those words broke my heart. Chloe was trying to understand where she fit in. In 2015, when I looked for books that reflected a little girl like her, I couldn't find any.
That moment inspired me to start creating stories that helped my daughter feel seen, valued, and proud of who she is. What began as bedtime storytelling became a mission to create culturally relevant books that celebrate diverse children, families, and traditions. I wanted Chloe and children like her to know that they belong exactly as they are.
Why is representation important in children's literature?
Representation helps children see themselves as important, capable, and worthy of being celebrated. When children find characters who look like them, share their experiences, or come from similar cultures, they feel seen and understood. Books also help children learn about people different from themselves, building empathy and connection.
Why should kids read Bachatica, even if they aren't interested in dance?
While Bachatica introduces children to the Dominican tradition of bachata, the heart of the story is much bigger than dance. It is about self-confidence, family, culture, and learning to embrace who you are. The message is simple: you do not have to be like anyone else to shine. Whether a child loves dance, sports, art, or science, the story encourages them to celebrate their own unique journey.
How is dance a form of cultural preservation?
Dance carries stories, traditions, and history from one generation to the next. Bachata is a beloved Dominican art form enjoyed around the world, yet there are very few children's books that introduce young readers to its cultural roots. Bachatica helps preserve this tradition by sharing it with children in a way that is joyful, accessible, and meaningful.
What are the benefits of bilingual storytelling?
Bilingual storytelling helps children develop language skills while strengthening their connection to culture and family. It allows children to see the value of speaking more than one language and creates opportunities for families to read together across generations. It also helps all readers appreciate different languages and cultures, fostering understanding and inclusion.
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