Debra Baadilla was born in Southern California, earning her Masters Degree in Education at the University of California at Riverside. She currently lives with her husband and her white fluffy Bijon, Mochi. She was a National Board-certified teacher, which is regarded as the most highly respected and recognized teaching credential nationwide. She was also previously named Riverside County Teacher of the Year and recipient of the BEST Award (for recognition within the County for going above and beyond in supporting English Learners and multilingual students.) She also taught English as a Second Language at the local community college in order to bridge the gap between students’ native languages and their academic, professional, or personal goals. She enjoys traveling immensely to learn about new cultures which inspire her to bring more legends to young readers. She loves sharing the richness of ethnic diversity with young readers to further develop the pride, respect, and dignity that all cultures enjoy.