🌎Spanglish, Stories, and Strength: How One Colby Author is Changing the Way Kids See Themselves

“You don’t have to choose between who you are—you can be all of it.”

Here in Colby, we’re lucky to be surrounded by people who are quietly doing really powerful things. And today’s spotlight? It’s one that hits straight to the heart.

Meet a local author who is turning childhood experiences, culture, and language into something beautiful—children’s books written in Spanglish.

And trust me… this isn’t just about books.

A Childhood Rooted in Culture, Family, and Language

Growing up as the fifth of six kids in a lively Mexican-American household, her world was filled with energy, humor, and a whole lot of love. Spanish filled the home, shaping not just how she communicated—but how she understood the world.

Vi & Family

Like many families, there were funny moments too—especially when her siblings thought they could outsmart their mom by speaking English as a “secret code.” (Spoiler alert: moms always know 😂).

But behind those moments was something deeper: a strong cultural foundation that would later inspire her writing.

✍️ Turning Life Experiences into Stories That Matter

Her writing journey started young—like, notebooks full of preteen thoughts young. But it wasn’t until later that she found her true purpose: creating books for kids who needed to feel seen.

Her inspiration? Her nieces and nephews.

She wanted stories where they could recognize themselves—not just in the characters, but in the emotions t

oo.

Auto-Graphs by Vi

Her first book, My Aunt Flor, dives into something we don’t always talk about enough—especially for young boys:

• It’s okay to feel.

• It’s okay to express emotions.

• And love and support can come in many forms.

Why “Spanglish” Isn’t Just a Style—It’s Real Life

For her, Spanglish isn’t a trend or a gimmick.

It’s real life.

It’s how conversations happen at home. It’s how thoughts flow naturally. It’s how identity exists between two worlds.

By blending Spanish and English together, she’s sending a powerful message to kids:

You don’t have to pick one side of who you are. You can celebrate both.

And kids are responding in the best way possible—they love it.

For some, it’s validation.

For others, it’s discovery.

For all, it’s a connection.

Writing for the Kids Who Felt “Different”

One of the most powerful parts of her story comes from her own childhood.

Learning English wasn’t easy. It was scary. And like too many kids experience, being different sometimes meant being left out—or worse, made fun of.

She remembers sitting in class, trying to keep up, trying to fit in.

And now?

She’s making sure other kids don’t have to feel that same isolation.

Her books are a safe place. A welcoming space. A reminder that who you are is more than enough.

When Kids Help Write the Story Too

Here’s something I LOVE about her journey…

Book by Vi

The kids helped shape it.

After My Aunt Flor, readers couldn’t get enough of the three dogs—Taquito, Juan, and Churro (honestly iconic names 😂). So what did she do?

She gave them their own story.

Because when kids feel connected, they speak up. And she listened.

 Giving Back to the Colby Community

Her impact doesn’t stop at books.

Right here in Colby, she’s actively helping bridge language gaps—whether it’s translating documents or helping parents and teachers connect.

And if you’ve ever been to the library, you might’ve already seen her in action. The Pioneer Memorial Library was one of the first places she shared her story publicly—nerves and all.

(She says she still gets butterflies… which honestly just makes it even better.)

🔮 What’s Next?

Okay… little exclusive moment here 👀

She’s shifting gears and working toward something new—an adult-style book based on true stories tied to someone incredibly important in her life.

Her hint?

“Don’t forget my pie.”

Yeah… we’re intrigued too.

Final Thoughts from the CVB

This is exactly what makes Colby special.

It’s not just the places—it’s the people. The stories. The voices that bring heart and meaning into our community.

And this one?

It’s vibrant. It’s loving. It’s real.

(Just like she described her books.)