 Bienvenida to Las Musas blog, Jackie Morera. We are eager to hear about your new project, In Case of Las Moscas. Let's talk about this sweet book. What is In Case of Las Moscas about? When Diego hears Abuela preparing “por si las moscas,” in case of the flies, alarm bells go off in his mind and he preps his schoolmates for an epic attack of winged insects. Except. . . some phrases don’t translate literally. What follows is a zany adventure filled with tactical meetings at recess, combat training in gym class, and keeping watch from the highest point of the playground, with illustrations that incorporate English and Spanish, and enough silliness for readers to enjoy in whatever language they speak. Written by Jackie Morera and illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson. Praise for In Case of las Moscas “Both peppy and quirky, Ruiz Johnson’s bright artwork offers just the right amount of spark. Whimsical fun, infused with food for thought on language.” —Kirkus Reviews “Good-humored….a lively work in which linguistic confusion becomes an opportunity for cultural connection.” —Publishers Weekly Jackie, what 3 words would you use to describe your book? Whimsical, humorous, and sweet. How would you describe your main character? Why did you create your character that way? Diego is delightfully curious and lovable. He’s so excited for his grandparents to visit, and can’t wait to show them all of the Spanish he’s been practicing since he last saw them, so when things go awry he’s eager to step in and save the day. In terms of his approach to language learning, I wanted Diego to represent everything I was too afraid to be as a “no sabo” kid. He’s bold and brave and not afraid to get things wrong. I love that about him! Where did you get the idea to write this particular story? This story was inspired by all the silly phrases I used to hear in my Cuban American household growing up: por si las moscas, no tiene pelo en la lengua, and many others. I wanted to write a story that honored that experience, played with language in a fun way to engage readers, and reflected what it can sometimes feel like to grasp for understanding across generations and languages as the descendant of immigrants. What message are you hoping readers will take away from this story? I want readers, especially Latine readers, to know that they are worthy of claiming whichever part of their identity that calls to them. There’s no right or wrong way to be! What books are on your to-be-read list? I’m really excited for Lowrider for Sale, by Laura De La Cruz and Vanessa Morales, A House in My Barrio, by Paola Santos and Olivia Sua, and Mami’s Heart, by Ana Siqueira and Nomar Perez Get to know Jackie!  Jackie Morera is a Cuban American author of books for young-at-heart readers, including PADIBA 2026 Commended Title Together We Remember, illustrated by Violeta Encarnación; Abuelo's Flower Shop, illustrated by Deise Lino; In Case of las Moscas, illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson; and more! Born and raised in Miami, Jackie lives in central Florida with her husband, son, and goofy pup. When she’s not writing, Jackie enjoys losing herself in a new book, savoring pastelitos, and cozying up for a good nap.
Jackie invites you to visit her online at jmorerabooks.com and on Instagram and Threads at @jmorerabooks or by subscribing to her newsletter.
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