The bond between a child and their pet is undoubtedly a special one. It can teach early lessons in responsibility and caregiving, and it is filled with the type of unconditional love that can help little ones thrive. But what happens when a pet is a bit more of a handful than originally expected? And what happens when those caregiving responsibilities include a flying pup with rainbow poop?
In Leo’s Lobo, the newest picture book by author Melissa Cristina Márquez, the reader is asked to imagine the special challenges of having a magical pet, as well as the rewards of knowing when to ask for help. We recently had the chance to chat with Melissa about Leo’s Lobo, what it’s like being an author who wears many hats, and the magical history of alebrijes.
Welcome to The Baby Bookworm, Melissa! When it comes time for the titular kiddo of Leo’s Lobo to pick his very own pet, he selects a particularly unusual furry friend. For readers who may not be familiar with alebrijes, can you give a short explanation of these fanciful creatures?
MCM: Alebrijes are brightly colored, fantastical creatures from Mexican folk art, often shown combining features of different animals. They’re imaginative, joyful, and deeply rooted in creativity and culture. To me, alebrijes represent the beauty of embracing imagination and identity, which felt like the perfect match for Leo’s story.
It’s love at first sight for Leo and Lobo, yet Leo soon finds that pet ownership—especially of a magical flying dog—can be a big challenge. Was Lobo inspired by any high-maintenance pets you’ve had in your life?
MCM: Oh yes, very much so! I’ve loved many animals in my life, and even the most beloved ones come with responsibility, patience, and unexpected challenges. Lobo is an exaggerated, magical version of that reality. I hope Lobo acts as a reminder that love doesn’t always mean “easy,” but it’s worth the effort.
The book also explores the importance of reaching out for support when one is feeling overwhelmed, something that can be tricky for readers of all ages. Why do you think that this is such an important lesson to learn at a young age?
MCM: To be honest, it’s because so many of us are taught to handle everything on our own, even when it feels impossible. Learning early on that it’s okay—and healthy!—to ask for help builds emotional resilience. I wanted children to see that needing support doesn’t mean failure. It means being human.
Spanish-speaking and bilingual readers will be happy to know that Leo’s Lobo is being released simultaneously in Spanish as El lobo de Leo, a trend that is gaining popularity in publishing. Why do you think that these types of bilingual releases are so beneficial to young readers?
MCM: Representation and access matter, and I’m so glad Penguin Random House agrees with that! Bilingual releases validate a child’s language, culture, and home experience, and it also invites other readers to engage with a new language. Stories should meet children where they are, and language should never be a barrier to feeling seen.
The brilliantly vibrant artwork of the illustrator Maria Gabriela Gama truly brings Leo and Lobo’s world to life. What was it like collaborating with Maria on this title?
MCM: It was such a joy. Maria’s art is full of warmth, movement, and heart. She didn’t just illustrate the story—she expanded it! Seeing Leo and Lobo come alive through her colors and details was truly magical, and it made me super emotional.
While this is your third picture book, readers may be surprised to know that author is just one of your many careers. You are also a marine biologist, wildlife educator, speaker, and podcaster! What drives you to connect with people and nature through so many avenues?
MCM: Curiosity and connection. I’ve always believed that science and storytelling go hand in hand, and whether I’m studying sharks or writing for children, my goal is the same: to help people feel less afraid of the natural world and more connected to it.
What inspired you to branch out from STEM and STEM education to writing children’s books?
MCM: I realized that many of our relationships with science (and with learning!) are formed very early in life. Children’s books are a powerful way to nurture curiosity, empathy, and confidence before fear or self-doubt sets in.
What advice would you give to young readers—particularly those from marginalized groups—who are interested in pursuing careers in STEM, writing, or (like you) both?
MCM: You belong in these spaces, even if they don’t always feel welcoming. Your background, perspective, and voice are strengths, not obstacles. Find your community, ask for help when you need it, and don’t feel pressured to choose just one path. You’re allowed to be many things!
I love to ask children’s creators about the books that they enjoyed when they were children themselves. Were there any books or series that inspired you when you were young?
MCM: I loved books that made the world feel bigger and more magical. Stories where animals were central, and imagination was celebrated. Those early reads planted the seed for my love of storytelling and science alike. The Magic Tree House series, written by Mary Pope Osborne, was a favorite, and I devoured them!
Lastly, in honor of Leo’s Lobo: if you could have your own alebrije as a pet, what would it look like?
MCM: Like Lobo! Funnily enough, Lobo in the story is based on my current pet, an Australian Shepherd named Lobo. And I couldn’t think of a better alebrije than him! He is so smart, so sassy, and he pretty much does fly when he jumps after his favorite red ball. This book is a love letter to him, thanking him for being the best pet ever (one I waited for over 23 years to get).
About Melissa Cristina Márquez
Melissa Cristina Márquez is a fiercely proud Hispanic marine biologist, wildlife educator, professional speaker, and presenter. She has given two TEDx talks on sharks and female scientists, and her work has been highlighted in NPR, Allure, Disney+, BBC, National Geographic, Good Morning America, and more. In 2021, Melissa was featured on the Forbes 30 Under 30: Science list and the InStyle 50 Badass Women list. Melissa holds a BA in marine ecology and conservation from New College of Florida and an MS in marine biology from Victoria University. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Mexico, Melissa aims to bring attention to the importance of diversity and inclusion with her writing.
A huge thank you to Melissa for taking the time to talk about her work with us! Check out her website at MelissaCMarquez.com, and be sure to check out Leo’s Lobo and El lobo de Leo, on bookshelves February 10th!
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