Reviews are in!
★ "This is a striking introduction to ultramarathon runner, Lorena Ramírez . . . Peppered with figurative language, the spare text is lyrical, at times echoing the rhythm of Ramírez’s steadfast footsteps. The digital illustrations are rich, evocative, and thoughtful in composition; the art beautifully blends present and past and gives readers a view of the race from a variety of perspectives . . . An exceptional addition to all collections."
– School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW
★ "Medina and Rojas Castro relate the story of Indigenous Mexican ultramarathon runner Lorena Ramírez (b. 1995) in this exuberant picture book, a double debut. . . Fluidly rendered digital illustrations showcase stunning desert colors with a bold palette . . . it’s a narrative that celebrates Ramírez’s determination, legacy, and grit."
– Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW
★ "Medina’s rhythmic text is punctuated with onomatopoeia and emphasizes Ramírez’s connection to the Rarámuri traditions . . . Castro’s richly colored digital images depict the flora and fauna of the desert terrain and feature floral motifs that surround Ramírez like a cloud of energy."
– Horn Book Magazine, STARRED REVIEW
"Brought to life by vivid illustrations and reverent, energetic prose, Ramírez’s story will delight readers. A vibrant homage to a celebrated athlete, her supportive community, and Indigenous resilience."
– Kirkus Reviews
"The narrative introduces [Lorena] as a child growing up in the canyon and, some years later, running a 60-mile marathon with her family cheering at the finish line. The back matter fills in the details of her intriguing story. Created with vivid colors, imaginative details, and a fine sense of movement, the illustrations capture the celebration of watching an Indigenous woman excel in the modern world."
– Booklist
Coming from Random House Studios!
Emelia Wishing
Ann Kelley at Random House Studio has bought world rights to Emelia Wishing by Belen Medina, illustrated by Magdalena Mora, a picture book about a girl who wishes she could have all the fancy, new things her family cannot afford instead of secondhand items, but as she discovers through her mother's sacrifices, what she does have is far more valuable. Publication is slated for summer 2026; Brent Taylor at Triada US represented the author and Steven Malk at Writers House represented the illustrator.
Coming Fall 2026 from Little, Brown!
DAUGHTERS OF THE SUN
by Belen Medina
illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
Daughters of the Sun is a picture book about the interconnectedness of immigration and migration through the eyes of a human and a monarch butterfly.
Praise for Belen’s Writing
“This poetic nonfiction manuscript is about Maria Lorena Ramirez, a member of the Tarahumara indigenous people of Chihuahua, Mexico, who runs in competitions around the world, day and night, over hot cracked earth, through cold wet rain, and up steep mountains, twenty, thirty, sometimes sixty miles. This story of persistence and competing without training or special equipment will inspire all to follow their passions.”
“LEE & LOW BOOKS is also proud to announce that Belen Medina Cabot of San Francisco, California, will receive the New Voices Award Honor for her picture-book manuscript ‘The Seesaws.’ Inspired by current events, Belen’s story follows two children who live on either side of the United States-Mexico border and the creative solution that allows them to play together.”
Honors and Awards
2023 The Word in Diversity Editor-Writer Mentee YA
2021 SCBWI Ann Paul Award Most Promising Picture Book Manuscript Grant
2021 SCBWI Volemos Grant, second runner-up
2021 Las Musas Hermanas Mentorship
2019 Lee & Low Books’ New Voices Award Honor
Belen visits a school to share her love of books and reading. Contact her to schedule a visit.