LeAnne Salazar Montoya (Educational Psychology, Leadership, and Higher Education) authored Tonio and the Chicharra, a heartfelt children’s book available for purchase on Amazon. Tonio and the Chicharra tells the story of a young boy and his Nana, capturing the warmth of intergenerational relationships and the richness of cultural traditions. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant Southwest, the book celebrates family, identity, and the beauty of everyday moments. This publication embodies Salazar Montoya’s commitment to diversity and representation in literature, drawing inspiration from Rudine Sims Bishop’s groundbreaking theory of “Windows, Mirrors, and Sliding Glass Doors.” The book offers readers the opportunity to see themselves reflected in the characters, to gain insights into the lives of others, and to connect with new perspectives.
