The True Source of Inspiration
Rafael explains where all of his good ideas really come from!
The Author-Illustrator Collaboration
Learn more about what it takes for an author and illustrator to to create a children's book, as well as Rafael's collaboration with Monica Brown on Celiz Cruz.
Celia leaves Cuba
Rafael offers insight into his depiction of Celia's departure from Cuba.
Yummm! Mmmm! Que Rico!
Rafael describes illustrating Pat Mora's haikus about foods of the Americas in Yummm! Mmmm! Que Rico!, and discusses one of his favorite illustrations in the book.
Reading from Top to Bottom
Rafael demonstrates the way he plays with space in this illustration for Book Fiesta.
An Early Start as an Artist
Rafael talks about drawing in his childhood, a teacher who foresaw his career, and how art helped him deal with mild dyslexia as a child.
Bringing Celia Cruz to life on paper
Rafael discusses his first book, Azucar: The Life of Celia Cruz.
Book Fiesta
Rafael describes bringing the joy of reading to life in Book Fiesta, for which he won the 2010 Pura Belpre Award.
Soaking Up Latino Influences
Rafael discusses the organic process by which cultural influences, especially from Mexico, make their way into his work.
Eating chili
Rafael talks about the joy of eating a hot chili pepper -- and how that joy made its way into his illustrations!