Xelena González
Xelena González is an accomplished storyteller, dancer, and author who combines the healing arts with creative expression through writing and movement. Her work centers on themes of self-love, community, and connection to the natural world, offering multi-disciplinary workshops for audiences of all ages. González is known for integrating movement into her storytelling through her innovative method of "tai chi storytelling," which she has shared in over 100 schools, libraries, and museums worldwide.
Her picture books have garnered significant acclaim, starting with All Around Us (Cinco Puntos Press, 2017), a story that won multiple awards for its exploration of the cyclical nature of life and the connection between generations. The book beautifully weaves together themes of family, culture, and nature, establishing González as a leading voice in children’s literature.
Her follow-up book, Where Wonder Grows (Lee & Low, 2022), continues to explore themes of wonder, curiosity, and connection to the natural world. It invites readers to discover the magic of nature and celebrates wisdom passed down through generations.
Her forthcoming title, Remembering (Simon & Schuster, 2023), is anticipated to further expand her reach in children’s literature. Each of her books is infused with the values of self-awareness, cultural heritage, and healing, making her work especially resonant in today’s world.
Before becoming a full-time author, González honed her storytelling skills as a librarian in her hometown of Yanaguana/San Antonio and later as head librarian at an international school in Guangzhou, China. These experiences shaped her storytelling approach, blending cultural richness with a universal message of self-love and healing.
Through her books, workshops, and performances, Xelena González continues to inspire readers and audiences to embrace creativity, mindfulness, and connection to the world around them.