Becky Walker Books

Author’s name: Allison and Rafael Rozo

Illustrator’s name: Vanessa Morales

Other book titles: UNIQUE LIKE YOU (Out on Sept 16th)

What is your upcoming book title? DIEGO FUEGO THE FIREFIGHTING DRAGON

Date of release: July 22, 2025

Preorder or Order link:    https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/735300/diego-fuego-the-firefighting-dragon-by-allison-rozo-and-rafael-rozo-illustrated-by-vanessa-morales/

Publisher: Penguin Workshop

Agent: Elisa Houot

Agency: The Seymour Agency

Hometown: Akron, OH

Social links: 

Blusky https://bsky.app/profile/allisonrozo.bsky.social

Instagram @allisonrozo https://www.instagram.com/allisonrozo?igsh=MWY2N3ZsbWd2b2Fycg==

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/1BnEFMKhxm/

Twitter/X @allison_rozo https://x.com/allison_rozo?t=Ilm6sDzLwCgAXxTt8yy4BA&s=09

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-roadruck-rozo-373a302b?

1. What is the premise/pitch for your book?

Our bilingual/Spanish tale centers around a young dragon living in Tierra del Fuego, South America, who is allergic to smoke. Unfortunately, every time his dragon family roars, he sneezes, creating icy flurries instead of flames. His family tries to help by not breathing fire, but they are dragons after all. When a fire grows out of control, he realizes his weakness is actually his superpower!

2. What are 5 things you want people to know about your book?

1. Our book is bilingual, written in English with Spanish words and phrases woven throughout.
2. The idea came from a misunderstanding with our son when we thought he said, “Firefighting Dragon.”
3. Diego Fuego’s allergy to smoke is inspired by my own struggles with allergies and asthma.
4. Diego Fuego’s feelings of not fitting in are inspired by Rafael’s feelings as an immigrant in this country. He is originally from Bogotá, Colombia.
5. We hope that kids will be inspired by Diego Fuego to discover their own unique superpowers!

3. What helpful hints or tips can you offer fellow writers about writing, publishing, and promoting a book?

Stories are hiding everywhere. In every moment of our lives. Always be watching and listening so you don’t miss a special moment that could be the inspiration for your next story. I have also learned that a story isn’t usually just one idea. It is a combination of many little moments and memories that build on each other. 

In traditional publishing, patience is the name of the game. Be patient with yourself and your process. Be patient with queries and responses from agents and editors. Be patient for your book release day. Fill your time with things that give you joy. Create and engage with writing communities. Have fun building your social media network. And circle back to the things that made you want to write books for children in the first place.

Writing can be an isolating endeavour. I believe it is important to connect, promote, and support other authors. A shared journey is magical when you get to celebrate the publishing triumphs. I have persevered because of the support of many of my author friends and critique partners. Lifting each other up is vital, and ultimately benefits us when it comes to promoting our books. I have been honored to be on this journey with our dear blogger, Becky Walker, for many years, cheering each other on through every milestone!

4. What are 5 fun/quirky facts about yourself as an adult or child?

1. I have loved roller skating since I was six years old. When I’m at the roller rink, weaving through the skaters, dancing to the music, and holding hands with my littles, I feel like a kid again!
2. My Grandmother was a children’s librarian who read to me constantly. I prayed every night that one day I would have stories to share just like her.
3. Diego Fuego was inspired by the time my mom accidentally burnt a pizza in the oven and the smoke sent me into an asthma attack. Remembering this moment made me realize Diego is allergic to smoke!
4. The first gift Rafael ever gave to me was a little red dragon he brought home from a work trip in Hong Kong, China.
5. Rafael and I had our wedding reception in a library at the top of a skyscraper in downtown Chicago. It is very serendipitous for a couple who would one day publish books together!

5. What did you learn about yourself while on the journey to publishing this book?

I learned on the journey to publish DIEGO FUEGO THE FIREFIGHTING DRAGON to trust my instincts and to share my ideas. The worst thing that could happen is to be told no. It is better to ask than to regret not speaking up. With this approach, our communication has been excellent. I can’t be happier with what our incredible team—the Editors, the Art Director, Vaness Morales (the Illustrator), etc—has created!

• Bluesky