MALINDA SAUNDERS/PORTFOLIO

As a Puerto Rican artist and educator, I wanted to create books that not only celebrate the beauty and culture of Puerto Rico but also serves as an educational tool. Many children I encountered as a teacher were unfamiliar with Puerto Rico, often assuming it was part of another country. I created Hola Puerto Rico to introduce young learners—both Puerto Rican and non-Puerto Rican—to the island’s history, language, and traditions while also serving as an engaging introduction to Spanish.

I focused on making the visuals colorful, authentic, and engaging. Using a combination of hand-drawn illustrations, digital design, and AI-assisted imagery, I ensured that each page reflected real Taino imagery, landscapes, and cultural elements unique to Puerto Rico. I wanted the book to feel vibrant yet clear, providing an immersive experience without overwhelming the reader.

To maintain cohesion, I used a consistent color palette, carefully selected fonts, and a balanced mix of activities and illustrations. This allowed the book to be both educational and visually appealing, making it enjoyable for children and adults alike.

The response to Hola Puerto Rico has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers have used the book as an enrichment resource in their classrooms, and parents appreciate having a tool that helps them share their heritage with their children. I’ve received photos of completed coloring pages from kids who feel proud of their artwork, and I designed the pages to be single-sided so they could be easily displayed.

What’s Next? I hope to continue expanding this series, creating activity books that highlight other U.S. territories and Spanish-speaking countries. My goal is to build cultural bridges through art and education, helping children discover the beauty in diverse traditions and languages.