In this week's Author POV, we talk with Hady Mendez about Calladita No More, a leadership book rooted in lived experience and written for readers who refuse to shrink themselves to fit in. Mendez shares how the project grew out of a desire to give back to her community, offering validation, representation, and practical guidance for the next generation of underestimated leaders.
Can you introduce your book for librarians who may be discovering it for the first time?
Rooted in lived experience, Calladita No More reveals how owning your identity unlocks a more authentic and impactful approach to leadership. It's written for the next generation of leaders who refuse to shrink themselves or dim their lights to fit in.
What inspired you to write this story, and what core themes do you hope readers take away from it?
I'm at a stage in my career where I want to pour back into my community. Calladita No More gives me a way to reach our community on a much bigger scale. I want my readers to feel validated by my experiences and truly seen in a way that other books may not provide.
What kind of readers or patrons do you see this book resonating with most?
I hope everyone reads the book, because I firmly believe there is something in it for everyone. However, I wrote the book (with lots of love) for Latinas, Women of Color, and the next generation of underestimated leaders.
What themes or discussion topics do you hope librarians highlight when recommending the book?
I hope librarians highlight the themes of identity, leadership, authenticity, and self-advocacy when recommending Calladita No More. The book explores how embracing your identity leads to more authentic leadership and provides practical guidance for confidently advocating for yourself.
If your book were part of a library display, what topics, themes, or comparable titles would you pair it with?
I would pair it with non-fiction books written written by other Latinas or Women of Color.
Do you offer author engagement options for schools or libraries? (Virtual visits, in-person events, Q&A sessions, etc.)
Yes! All of of the above.
Is there anything else you would like librarians, teachers, or educators to know about your work?
One really cool aspect of the book are the refranes, or cultural sayings, that I use at the start of each chapter. I love how they set up what the reader can expect in the chapter and so far readers have really enjoyed them.
Learn more about Hady Mendez and her work by visiting her website here.
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