Happy Book Birthday to ¡1, 2, 3 Baila!

Illustrations by Graciela Andrade.

​Join us in celebrating ¡1,2,3 Baila! series book birthday. We sat down with Musa Delia Ruiz to learn all about the inspiration behind the these books.
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But first, a little bit about this book series:

¡1,2,3 Baila! is an English-Spanish board book series that introduces primary concepts and Spanish language in a fun and interactive way through Latin dance. Learn number counting with salsa, instruments/sounds with merengue, and manners with cumbia.

​What 3 words would you use to describe your book?
I would describe the ¡1,2,3 Baila! series as lively, bilingual, and interactive.

Where did you get the idea to write this particular story?
I drafted the salsa story in 2021. It was supposed to be a stand alone picture book title inspired by my love for dancing salsa while infusing number counting for little ones. When I pitched it, the publisher loved the idea and was interested in a series. I had to come back to the drawing board and pitch two additional titles which now include merengue and cumbia. All are genres of music I listen to, dance to, and are mixed with concepts young ones can learn from in a fun way.  

Can you share your path to publication for this book?
I pitched this story as a direct submission to the publisher in 2021. At that time I did not have an agent nor had I started the query process. Right away, we began working on the translation of the manuscripts and writing the two additional stories for the series. I was involved with edits along the way and got to see the character sketches throughout. It was a lovely experience to have input in this project and work with a great team.   

​What message are you hoping readers will take away from this story? 
I love that the series introduces children to the basic steps of dance while teaching them concepts that grown-ups can expand on. I hope children walk away knowing that dance is for everyone. You can dance with a partner or by yourself. Dance is about finding your own rhythm and having the choice to do it alone too! There is no “right” way, the steps are a guide but what’s more important is to make it your own and have fun! 

What comes next for you as an author?
I’m currently on submission with a few projects that I hope to announce soon! These upcoming works have a Latinx feel and are from personal experience. I am also revising a novel in verse. I hope to share more soon!
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Delia Ruiz is a first generation author from San Antonio, Texas. Her works include the International Latino Book Award winner Roqui’s Pandero Beat and the bilingual board book series ¡1,2,3 Baila! Delia hopes to inspire the next generation of writers who also come from immigrant households. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband and pug. ​

X (Twitter):@aventuras.en.esl
Instagram: @aventuras.en.esl
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