MASTER STORYTELLER & CHILDREN'S BOOK AUTHOR

Carmen Rubin is an acclaimed and beloved  author of children's books, interactive ebooks, and playwright.

​

After a short stint of teaching school-age children, the native San Franciscan began writing full time. For decades, she has used her voice to empower youth, promote literacy, and works diligently to bring diversity and inclusion into literacy and education. 

​

In 1999, Carmen founded a non-profit organization, One Blue Village, which supports youth in underserved communities.  She has worked with organizations such as YMCA, Sesame Street, Determined to Educate, Boys and Girls Club of America, Harlem Children’s Zone, and Wade’s World Foundation. Carmen’s first book, Ashti Meets Birdman Al, led to a collaboration with Jazz crooner, Al Jarreau and  was acknowledged by former First Lady, Michelle Obama. 

​

Appearances have been made on television, radio, and news media outlets. When the author is not visiting schools, she partners with bookstores, donating books to communities world-wide, especially those that have been affected by natural disasters.  She also volunteers at local libraries and serves on the National Advisory Board for READING IS FUNDAMENTAL.  

​

Her best-known work, Ashti Meets Birdman Al, has lyrically warmed the hearts of many. Other book titles include, The Gifted Guitar, Social Eyes, and Honcho Hates Mud, The Heartbeat of Bahia, Swallowed, Azure Leads the Way, Peanut Butter and Charlie, Summer in the City, The Little Llama from Lima, Phoenix's Empty Nest, and Frida's First Painting. 

​

She enjoys hiking, hammocks, and hanging out with her amazing husband and daughters. 

​

If you're in the Minneapolis area July 18-20, 2024, bring your family to see her debut children's stage play, Ashti's Journey to Jazz. 

 

​