Laura De La Cruz, a resident of Liberty Hill, Texas, has always had a passion for storytelling. Growing up listening to her grandparents’ tales and spending years in elementary school libraries surrounded by children’s books, she felt inspired to share her own narratives.
On September 8, she will release her debut children’s book, “Lowrider for Sale,” published by Disney. De La Cruz moved to Liberty Hill in 2019, seeking a quieter life away from California’s highways. The family’s journey led them to a charming property with a large oak tree that felt like home.
Her writing path has been winding; she worked as a software engineer and taught Spanish, but her fondest experiences were in school libraries, engaging with children and books. Drawing from her own cultural heritage, De La Cruz’s inspiration for “Lowrider for Sale” comes from cherished memories of her father, who passed away when she was just eight. Although it’s not directly autobiographical, the story reflects her attachment to objects that carry memories, like a lowrider from her childhood.
The writing process took years, with the manuscript undergoing around 20 revisions. After numerous rejections, she finally found success with Disney, securing a two-book deal. Her second book, “Besos for Mommy,” is scheduled for release in 2028 and will explore a little girl’s quest for the perfect Mother’s Day gift.
De La Cruz aims to enhance representation in children’s literature, particularly for Latino culture. Following her book’s release, she plans several appearances in Central Texas and Los Angeles, where she looks forward to connecting with young readers. “Lowrider for Sale” will be available through major booksellers and promises to be an exciting new addition to children’s literature.
