Photo by Venti Views on Unsplash

May is AANHPI Heritage Month, and Southern California is home to many Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) kidlit creators. These authors, illustrators, and content creators are weaving their heritage, experiences, and cultural traditions into stories that resonate with readers of all backgrounds. From picture books to middle-grade novels, their works reflect the diversity of the AAHNPI community.

If you want to enrich your school’s literary and cultural programming, I welcome you to learn more about these AANHPI kidlit creators. Their ability to connect with students through shared cultural experiences and introduce new perspectives makes them invaluable role models in today’s classrooms.

In Alphabetical Order:

Benson Shum
Author, Illustrator
Website: Benson Shum

Bonnie Lui
Author, Illustrator
Website: Bonnie Lui

Keika Yamaguchi
Author, Illustrator
Website: Keika’s House

Ken Min
Author, Illustrator
Website: Ken Min Art

Kim-Hoa Ung
Author, Illustrator
Website: Kim-Hoa Ung Illustration

Kimberly Gee
Author, Illustrator
Website: Kimberly Gee

Maya Lê
Content Creator
Website: MaistoryBook 

Maple Lam
Author, Illustrator
Website: Maple Lam

Natasha Khan Kazi
Author, Illustrator, Content Creator  
Website: Natasha Khan Kazi

Southern California’s AANHPI kidlit creators are enriching the world of children’s literature with their unique perspectives. Their stories serve as mirrors and windows, reflecting the experiences of AANHPI communities while inviting all readers to connect with universal themes of love, family, identity, and resilience. By supporting these creators, we celebrate the beauty of representation and ensure that young readers grow up in a world where their stories are heard and valued. Explore their work, share their stories, and join the movement to amplify AANHPI voices in children’s literature.

If you are an AANHPI Creator based in Southern California, please contact me and let me know you would like to be on the list!