A Celebration of Books,
Writers & LIterary Excellence

Save the Date


Gaithersburg
Book Festival

May 17, 2025

10am – 6pm

Bohrer Park


John Parra

Latest Title: Growing an Artist: The Story of a Landscaper and His Son
Growing an Artist: The Story of a Landscaper and His Son

From award-winning artist John Parra comes a touching and deceptively simple picture book based on his childhood experience that’s a “heartwarming family story that underscores the value of creativity, passion, and hard work” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) and celebrates the bond between a father and son.

Today is a big day—the first time Juanito gets to help his papi on the job as a landscape architect! Throughout the day, Juanito sketches anything that catches his eye: a nest full of baby birds, a nursery with row upon row of plants and flowers, and more. Father and son travel from house to house, pruning, weeding, mowing, and turning overgrown and chaotic yards into beautiful spaces.

A few of the clients don’t appreciate Papi’s hard work, like Juanito’s classmate who pretends not to see him. But Papi always feels pride in owning his own business and in a job well done. And at the end of the day, Juanito may get the chance to turn his artistic eye toward landscape design—just like his papi.

About John Parra

John Parra is an award-winning artist, illustrator, author and educator, best known for his Latino-themed children’s picture books. His work on “Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos” was named a New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book of the Year. He regularly speaks as a visiting artist at schools and literary conferences across the country, advocating art and reading education. His new book, “Growing an Artist: The Story of a Landscaper and His Son,” is his debut as both author and illustrator and has received numerous starred reviews. John currently lives with his wife, Maria, in Queens, N.Y.

Facebook

Instagram: @johnparraart

Twitter: @johnparraart

 

Author Schedule:

Venue(s):

Willa Cather Pavilion

Presentation Start Time:

4:15 pm

Presentation End Time:

5:15 pm

Signing Time:

5:25 pm

Presentation Authors: