The author of Gingersnap Snatchers discusses representation in children’s books.

When it comes to

representation in children’s books, there are two factors to consider. The first is that we need more picture books that reflect diverse cultures and experiences because teaching children starts when they’re young. They don’t just learn what we tell them–they learn what they see. So, they need to see the world at their fingertips! The second factor is that BIPOC people just exist in the world and therefore…they should just exist in children’s books too. Everyone deserves to see themselves as the hero, the princess, the president, the good guy.

            And that’s my favorite part of Gingersnap Snatcher. It’s a lighthearted story about three siblings excited about an afterschool snack…only to find it missing. So they adventure through their home in search of the cookie thief. It’s not important to the storyline that they are Latinx because the focus is on family and fun! In fact, gingersnap cookies aren’t Latinx in origin at all; they’re European.

Everyone deserves to see themselves as the hero, the princess, the president, the good guy.

            And that’s the point I wanted to make. BIPOC people aren’t one-sided. They enjoy things outside of their heritage and culture. Personally, I’m half-Puerto Rican though so at Thanksgiving, we’d have turkey, but we’d also have pernil al horno. I grew up loving sugar cookies just as much as platanos maduros. And that’s what makes Gingersnap Snatcher so relatable.

For more information about Vicky Weber and a chance to win her latest book, visit Book Review + Giveaway: Gingersnap Snatcher.