Welcome! Hi, I'm Wanda Arleen Barajas, a Latina children’s book author. I believe that stories can inspire and move kids. Through my books, Benny the Brave: A Story of Loss, Love, and Learning, and Carina and Sabi: A Journey to the Heart of Cidra, I want to give kids courage, love, friendship, and cultural history. Each story is written to inspire kindness, fuel imagination, and create lifelong memories. Thanks for stopping by. I’m so happy you’re here!

Stories That Touch the Heart and Inspire the Imagination

Cover of Benny the Brave by Wanda Arleen Barajas, featuring an illustrated brown and white dog.

Discover My Books

Benny the Brave

A Story of Love, Loss, and Learning

PRAISE FOR BENNY THE BRAVE

“An inspiring tale of courage and love that deftly explains tragedy and perseverance in terms children can understand.”
— Kirkus Reviews

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“One of the most important morals of this story is that being different does not mean being ‘less than.’ Although the characters are dogs, the lesson applies to humans as well.”

— Reader’s Favorite (5-Star Review)

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Cover of Carina and Sabi: A Journey to the Heart of Cidra by Wanda Arleen Barajas, featuring a girl sitting outdoors with a Paloma Sabanera..

English Edition

Cover of Carina y Sabi: Un viaje al corazón de Cidra, the Spanish edition by Wanda Arleen Barajas, featuring a girl and a Paloma Sabanera outdoors.

Spanish Edition

Carina and Sabi

A Journey to the Heart of Cidra

PRAISE FOR CARINA AND SABI

Instructive and celebratory, Carina and Sabi: A Journey to the Heart of Cidra is the perfect story for introducing readers to the intertwined relationship between nature and culture.”

— Dr. Jen Harrison, The Children's Book Review

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A Personal Touch from the Author

Make your book even more special with a signed and personalized copy! When you buy directly from my website, add the recipient's name or your preferred inscription to the order notes at checkout. Whether it's a birthday gift, a special celebration, or a treasured keepsake, a personalized book adds a heartfelt touch.

For me, storytelling celebrates the people, places, and experiences that shape our lives. Through my children's books, I hope to inspire compassion, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us. I invite you to learn more about my journey as an author and the inspiration behind my stories.

Meet the Author