Xiomara Gallego-Bernard was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, where she spent her formative years. Enduring open heart surgery at just one-year-old due to a congenital heart condition shaped her perspective on life, instilling in her a deep appreciation for every moment and a commitment to purpose-driven living.
The inspiration behind "Tomás Returns to School" stems from Xiomara's journey supporting her highly sensitive child. Recognizing a gap in literature addressing coping mechanisms for children facing situational triggers, she embarked on writing the book. During this creative process, Xiomara discovered her sensitivity, reflecting on childhood experiences where such strategies would have been invaluable.
Her writing serves as a conduit for sharing practical knowledge, acquired through lived experiences, with others. Xiomara envisions her stories as not only promoting a love for reading but also nurturing values of acceptance, empathy, and kindness.
Outside of writing, Xiomara dedicates herself to her wellness journey and empowering others to lead healthier lives. She cherishes moments spent at home with her husband and three sons.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Irina Chasov is a self-taught artist who was always drawn to the magic of illustration. From the moment she turned the pages of her first picture book, she was captivated by the power of storytelling. Now, as an illustrator, she has the privilege of giving visual life to the characters, landscapes, and adventures that ignite the imaginations of young readers around the world.
When Irina is not lost in the world of illustration, you can find her exploring nature's wonders, savoring a cup of coffee with a well-loved book, or dreaming up new illustrations to share with the world. Her life motto is “Each day is an opportunity to find beauty, inspiration, and joy in the world around us.”