News and Events
Upcoming Events
Literacy Night at Free Horizon Montessori School
When: Thursday, September 17, 2026, 5:45-7:30 pm
Where: Free Horizon Montessori School, 15920 W. 10th Ave, Golden, CO 80401
Join local author Jolene Gutiérrez as she shares her story Too Much! An Overwhelming Day, answers questions, and signs books!
Unbreakable Storytime, Conversation, and Book Signing at Simpson United Methodist Church
When: Saturday, October 3, 2026, 11:00 am-1:00 pm
Where: Simpson United Methodist Church, 6001 Wolff St, Arvada, CO 80003
Join local author Jolene Gutiérrez as she reads from Unbreakable: A Japanese Family in an American Incarceration Camp, discusses the book with Karen Stoner, descendant of Amache survivor Yuki Nogami, and signs books. Go here to learn more and RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/unbreakable-live-book-reading-community-conversation-tickets-1999860179632
Belonging Inspires Learning: Innovative Literature-Based Strategies for K-8 Presentation
When: Thursday, October 8, 2026 8:30-9:20 am
Where: Colorado School Counselor Association (CSCA) Conference
Join a panel of award-winning authors, with backgrounds in education and mental health, as they share how picture books, chapter books, and middle grade books serve as springboards for discussions about friendship, emotion regulation, conflict resolution, and community building. Learn more here: https://sites.google.com/view/2026csca/home?authuser=0
Spotlight Panel: Rejection, Resilience & the Long Game: Real Talk from Four Authors Who Stayed the Course
When: Sunday, October 11, 2026, 9:50-10:35 am
Where: Rocky Mountain SCBWI Letters & Lines Conferences, Colorado School of Mines, Green Center, Friedhoff Hall
Join Carmela LaVigna Coyle, Jolene Gutiérrez, Lauren H. Kerstein, and Bianca Schulze for an honest, heartfelt, and occasionally hilarious conversation about what it really takes to sustain a creative life through the doubt, the waiting, and the setbacks — and come out the other side still writing. Learn more here: https://www.scbwi.org/events/letters-lines-2026
Simpson United Methodist Church Arts & Crafts Sale with Jolene Gutiérrez signing Unbreakable
When: Sunday, October 18, 2026, 11:00 am-3:00 pm
Where: Simpson United Methodist Church, 6001 Wolff St, Arvada, CO 80003
Join local author Jolene Gutiérrez as she signs copies of Unbreakable: A Japanese Family in an American Incarceration Camp.
Unbreakable with Jolene Gutiérrez through the Program for Teaching East Asia's Teaching Japanese Incarceration using Multimodal Sources course
When: Thursday, October 29, 2026, 5:00-6:00 pm
Where: online
The Program for Teaching East Asia program's Teaching Japanese Incarceration using Multimodal Sources course runs October 1-November 18, 2026. Accepted teachers will receive $100 and 24 credit hours on completion of the course. Go here to learn more: https://tinyurl.com/TEAcourseregistration
AND you can register for just Jolene's webinar that's a part of this course here: https://tinyurl.com/UnbreakableWebinar
You can find more information on the flyers below or you can find information about all of the programs Teaching East Asia offers by going here: https://www.colorado.edu/ptea/
The Ofrenda That We Built featured at Colorado Symphony Día de Muertos celebration
When: Sunday, November 1, 2:30-4:00 pm
Where: Boettcher Concert Hall at Denver Performing Arts Complex, 1000 14th St #15, Denver, CO 80202
Join Shaian Gutiérrez and Jolene Gutiérrez at the Colorado Symphony as their book The Ofrenda That We Built is read and an ofrenda is created. Learn more here: https://tickets.coloradosymphony.org/7888
8th Annual Children's Book Festival at Boulder Public Library
When: Friday, November 7 and Saturday, November 8, 2026
Where: At local schools on Friday; at Boulder Public Library Main Branch on Saturday; 1001 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80302
Join award-winning authors and illustrators, including author Jolene Gutiérrez. Learn more here: https://www.colorado.edu/event/bookfest/
NCTE Conference 2026 in Philadelphia
The Nerdy Book Club: Imagining a Better World Through Student Voice, Reading Choice, and Community
When: Friday, November 20, 2026, 12:30 - 1:45 pm
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center
The Nerdy Book Club is a literacy community that imagines a future grounded in engaged reading, student voice, and community participation. In this interactive roundtable session, authors, educators, and students share instructional practices, creative assessments, media resources, and digital tools that inspire readers to connect literature to the world and issues that matter to them. Authors (including Jolene Gutiérrez) will rotate tables and talk to different small groups of educators.
Inspiring Student Voice and Agency Using Award-Winning Literature: Writing to Make a Difference
When: Sunday, November 22, 2026, 9:00-10:15am
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center
We will begin the session by establishing a rationale for integrating diverse literature as mentor texts within an explicit writing framework to cultivate student voice, craft, and creativity. Following this introduction, a roundtable format will utilize a rotating model, allowing all participants to spend about 5-7 minutes with each author (including Jolene Gutiérrez) to discuss how their work can be used to model specific writing techniques.
Past Events
Phictly Global Digital Book Festival
When: Saturday, July 25, 9:00 am-11:00 am MST and 2:00 pm-4:00 pm MST
Where: Online, visit https://phictly.com/bookfest/ for more information and tickets
Remembering Amache: History and Storytelling with Local Author Jolene Gutiérrez
When: Thursday, July 23, 3:00-4:00 pm
Where: Bemis Public Library, 6014 S Datura St, Littleton, CO 80120
Join local author Jolene Gutiérrez as she shares information about Amache, a Colorado incarceration camp, and reads the book Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp, co-written with Minoru Tonai and illustrated by Chris Sasaki. Copies of Unbreakable will also be available for purchase from local bookstore Spell Books and the author will sign copies at the end of the presentation. Caregivers are encouraged to stay for the presentation so that conversations can be continued at home. Learn more here: https://bemis.libcal.com/event/16437098
“Unbreakable” – Book signing, children’s story time, and panel discussion with Author Jolene Gutiérrez, illustrator Chris Sasaki and author Minoru Tonai’s son John Tonai
When: Sunday, July 12, 2026 from 1pm to 3pm
Where: Los Angeles Maritime Museum, Berth 84, San Pedro, CA 90731
Jolene Gutiérrez will be reading her book Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp and Jolene and illustrator Chris Sasaki will be in conversation with Minoru Tonai's children. Learn more and purchase tickets here: https://www.lamaritimemuseum.org/event/unbreakable-book-signing-childrens-story-time-and-panel-discussion/
FAB (Festival of AAPI Books) Long Beach
When: Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 11am to 5pm (Jolene's event is 1:00-1:30)
Where: Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library, 5870 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach CA 90805
Jolene Gutiérrez will be reading her book Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp along with Minoru Tonai's children. FAB celebrates children's, young adult, and adult authors, vendors, arts and crafts, and more, from across the Asian diaspora. Learn more here: https://belcantobooks.net/fab-long-beach
Denver University Amache Field School/Archaeology Open House
WHEN/WHERE:
FRIDAY, July 3 (2:30 storytime) @Granada Community Center, 103 S. Main Street, Granada, CO 81041
SATURDAY, July 4 (10:00 storytime) @Amache National Historic Site, County Rd 23 5/10, Granada, CO 81041
Join Jolene Gutiérrez for a storytime with her book Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp (co-written with Minoru Tonai, illustrated by Chris Sasaki). Learn more here: https://amache.org/archaeology-open-house/
Cherry Blossom Festival Denver
When: Saturday, June 27, 1:00-4:00 pm
Where: Sakura Square, 1950 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202
Join Jolene Gutiérrez for crafts and a storytime with her book Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp (co-written with Minoru Tonai, illustrated by Chris Sasaki). Jolene will be sharing Unbreakable on the main stage at 3:10, too. Learn more here: https://cherryblossomdenver.org/
Emily Barth Isler & Jolene Gutiérrez Author Event
When: Monday, June 8, 6:00-7:00 pm
Where: Second Star to the Right Bookstore, 1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Join Emily Barth Isler and Jolene Gutiérrez for a storytime and discussion around their picture books that center hard history and hope. Learn more and RSVP here: https://events.humanitix.com/author-visit-with-jolene-gutierrez-and-emily-barth-isler
.png)
Summer Reading for Teachers!
When: Thursday, May 28, 4:00-5:00 pm
Where: Composition Shop Bookstore, 356 Main St, Longmont, CO 80501
Join our new Summer Reading Book Club designed to introduce you to some great children's authors and their amazing books, ranging from picture books to young adults. Each author will be present at their book's meeting! Learn more here: https://www.compositionshop.com/events/5086420260528
Amache Pilgrimage
When: May 15-17, 2026, 4:00-5:00 pm
Where: Amache National Historic Site and Granada School, 201 S. Hoisington St., Granada, Colorado
Book signing at the Granada School with Jolene Gutiérrez and Susan, John, and Teresa Tonai. Learn more here: https://amache.org/pilgrimage/
North Mor Elementary School Celebration of Learning
When: May 7, 2026, 5:30-7:00 pm
Where: North Mor Elementary School, 9580 Damon Drive, Northglenn, CO 80260
Join author Jolene Gutiérrez for a discussion of her books and storytimes!
JANM Nikkei Children's Book Festival
When: May 9, 2026, 9:30 am-3:00 pm
Where: Japanese American National Museum (JANM), 100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
The festival celebrates children’s literature across the diverse Japanese American community and will include author storytimes, Q&As, and activities for all ages. Learn more here: https://www.janm.org/events/2026-05-09/2026-nikkei-childrens-book-festival
Nerd Nite Denver: Writing for Children
When: April 24, 2026, 7:00-9:00 pm
Where: The Bug Theater, 3654 Navajo St, Denver, CO 80211
Writing for Children: How Hard Can it Be?: Learn about the world of picture books from a school librarian and children’s author. What are some of the common myths and misconceptions about writing for the youngest readers? Is it really so easy that anyone can do it? Jolene will be presenting about the process of writing picture books and sharing information about her newest picture book, Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp.
.png)
Unbreakable Book Event at Second Star to the Right Bookstore
When: April 25, 2026, 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Where: Second Star to the Right Bookstore, 1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Join Jolene for Independent Bookstore Day and for a special Unbreakable storytime and book signing. Learn more and RSVP here: https://events.humanitix.com/book-launch-with-jolene-gutierrez
Rooted in Reading Event
When: April 19, 2026, 12:00-3:00 pm
Where: Helen Fowler Library at Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
Jolene Gutiérrez will be presenting to writers about primary sources, showcasing her book Unbreakable, and discussing the connections between the book and the Denver Botanic Gardens documentary Amache Rose. You can learn more here: https://www.botanicgardens.org/blog/meet-authors-and-illustrators-rooted-reading
San Francisco Cherry Blossom Festival
When: April 11-12, 2026, 1:00-3:00 pm
Where: 1684 Post Street, San Francisco, California 94115
Jolene and Min Tonai’s son John will be a guest of the National Japanese American Historical Society. There will be a book signing and children’s activity at the National Japanese American Historical Society (NJAHS) Gallery. Parking spaces are limited; streets are closed by noon. Arrive early to get a space and validation. Learn more here: https://www.njahs.org/events/unbreakable-cherry-blossom-festival-book-signing/
Family Literacy Night
When: April 10, 2026, 5:30-7:30 pm
Where: American Academy Lincoln Meadows Campus, 10210 S. Twenty Mile Rd, Parker, CO 80134
Jolene Gutiérrez will be presenting to students and families about her books and the inspirations behind her writing.
JeffCo Young Writers Conference
When: April 2, 2026
Where: Marshdale Elementary, 26663 N Turkey Creek Rd, Evergreen, CO 80439
Jolene Gutiérrez will be the conference keynote speaker! More information here: https://sites.google.com/jeffcoschools.us/ywc2026/home
Unbreakable Book Launch
When: April 4, 2026, 4:00-5:30 pm
Where: Composition Shop Bookstore, 356 Main St, Longmont, CO 80501
Award-winning author Jolene Gutierrez will be in-store on Saturday, April 4th at 4pm to discuss her new book Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp. She will be in conversation with a local historian discussing the history of Camp Amache. Learn more here: https://www.compositionshop.com/events/4738020260404
Writers Inspiring Writers: Mentor Texts
When: Thursday, March 19 3:30-4:45 MST
Where: VIRTUAL, with a video replay shared if you register
Learn from authors Nell Cross Beckerman, Michelle Schaub, Laura Purdie Salas, and Jolene Gutiérrez, facilitated by Dr. Sophie M. Ladd and the other amazing Southern Nevada Writing Project (SNWP) educators as they discuss mentor texts, inspiration, and give attendees time to write, too!
Register for this FREE event here: https://forms.gle/8PUNwgoFg2tHyeZd7
Storytime with Local Authors
When: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 12:00-2:00 pm
Where: Barnes & Noble, 960 S Colorado Blvd, Glendale, CO 80246
Jolene Gutiérrez and Wayne McDonald will be sharing stories and signing books! Learn more here: https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062203920-0
Literacy Night
When: Thursday, February 19, 2026, 5:30-7:30 pm
Where: Swigert International
Jolene Gutiérrez will be sharing stories, talking about writing, and signing books!
Metropolitan State University Roadrunners' Book Fair
When: Friday, February 6, 2026, 5:30 - 8:30 pm
Where: Tivoli, 900 Auraria Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204
Jolene Gutiérrez will be one of the authors selling/signing copies of her books. More information here: https://www.msudenver.edu/alumni/events/roadrunner-author-book-fair-2026/
CCIRA Conference
When: Thursday, February 5, 2026, 7:30 - 11:30 am
Where: Local Colorado Council of the International Reading Association Conference
Jolene Gutiérrez will be talking about her books and inspiration!
This is my Story: Childrens' Author Week
When: Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 6:00-7:00 pm
Where: Brighton Anythink Branch, 327 E Bridge St, Brighton, CO 80601
Celebrate Children's Author and Illustrator week with a special visit from local author, Jolene Gutiérrez. With help from Jolene, we will explore adventures, experiences, and traditions that are important to us and our families to create a picture book of our own. This program will be facilitated in English, but all stories are welcome. Appropriate for young writers ages 7-12.
National Council for Teachers of English Annual Conference
November 20-23
Jolene's Presentations:
Igniting Bold Dreams: Using Picture Books to Help Readers Connect to History and Find Their Voice
Igniting Bold Dreams: Using Picture Books to Help Readers Connect to History and Find Their Voice
Venue: Colorado Convention Center
Room: Room 610
Dates: November 21, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM MST
Join Bianca Schulze, Host of The Growing Readers Podcast, as she moderates a panel with Nyasha Williams, Jolene Gutiérrez, Vivian Kirkfield, and Nadia Salomon discussing the themes of heritage, community, following dreams, and the power of one’s voice. Attendees will tap into these themes, hands-on activities and lesson plans that can be adapted to a variety of texts.
Join Bianca Schulze, Host of The Growing Readers Podcast, as she moderates a panel with Nyasha Williams, Jolene Gutiérrez, Vivian Kirkfield, and Nadia Salomon discussing the themes of heritage, community, following dreams, and the power of one’s voice. Attendees will tap into these themes, hands-on activities and lesson plans that can be adapted to a variety of texts.
Writers Inspiring Writers: How Both Authors and Students Use Mentor Texts to Reach Their Writing Dreams
Venue: Colorado Convention Center
Room: Mile High Ballroom 4E/4F
Dates: November 21, 2025 12:30 PM - 1:45 PM MST
DREAM with NCTE award-winning authors, Southern Nevada Writing Project directors, and teacher-consultants in this presentation inspiring educators to help young writers dream and create. Participants will engage in writing, learn that writing does not happen in isolation - even award-winning authors are inspired by other writers - and discuss how to use mentor texts to foster classroom writing.
Threads of Possibility: Author/Educator Panel for Dream Weavers
Venue: Colorado Convention Center
Room: Room 106
Dates: November 21, 2025 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM MST
Nurture dreams, empathy, and creativity through multiple interactive activities designed for the classroom using varied picture book genres as models. In part 1, “Follow the Threads,” panelists explore threads of individual dreams and how they’re woven into the fabric of community. In part 2, “Weaving the Tapestry,” attendees practice using poetic forms to spin threads of their own hopes and dreams.
BOOK SIGNINGS
Friday, November 21
2:00pm-3:00 pm
Signing The Ofrenda That We Built in Chronicle Booth #1022
Saturday, November 22
11:00am - 12:00pm
Signing Mamiachi & Me in Abrams Booth #815
Sunday, November 23
9:00am - 10:00am
Signing Mamiachi & Me in Classroom Library Company Booth #1016
Dia de Muertos en Bicicleta y con Cultura
When: Sunday, November 2, 12:30-2:00 p.m.
Where: Jefferson County Public Library Golden Branch, 1019 10th St, Golden, CO 80401
Where: Jefferson County Public Library Golden Branch,
On Sunday, November 2, Américas por la Conservación + las Artes will be doing a bike ride to Lions Park in Golden (1300 10th St, Golden, CO 80401) and then all KINDS of family celebrations--food, music, dancing, face painting, catrinas, and STORYTIMES at the Jefferson County Public Library Golden branch (1019 10th St, Golden, CO 80401). Join Jolene for a reading of The Ofrenda That We Built!
.png)
Hunters Glen Holiday Market
When: Friday, November 7, 6:00-8:00 pm and Saturday, November 8, 10:00 am-4:00 p.m.
Where: 930 E 130th Ave, Thornton, CO 80241
Jolene will have copies of her books available for purchase, and she's happy to write a personal note and autograph them, too!
Día de Muertos storytime and activities at Anythink Brighton Branch
When: Saturday, October 25, 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Where: 327 E Bridge St, Brighton, CO 80601
Jolene and Shaian Gutiérrez will share their book The Ofrenda That We Built and they'll explore some of the elements of an ofrenda through photos, activities, and crafts. Courtesy of the Anythink Brighton Library, each family will receive a free book!
Learn more and register here: https://events.anythinklibraries.org/event/14712909
Thornton's Día de Muertos storytime celebration at McAllister Park Center
When: Saturday, November 1, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Where: McAllister Park Center 750 W. 96th Ave., Thornton, CO
Jolene Gutiérrez will share her book The Ofrenda That We Built and we'll discuss some of the elements of an ofrenda.
When: Saturday, November 1, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Where: McAllister Park Center 750 W. 96th Ave., Thornton, CO
Where: McAllister Park Center 750 W. 96th Ave., Thornton, CO
Jolene Gutiérrez will share her book The Ofrenda That We Built and we'll discuss some of the elements of an ofrenda.
Sensory and SEL Storytime at Aurora Public Library
When: Thursday, October 16, 10:15-11:15 am
Where: Aurora Public Library, 14949 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012
SPECIAL SENSORY STORYTIME WITH JOLENE GUTIÉRREZ
Jolene Gutiérrez will share her books Too Much! An Overwhelming Day and Mac & Cheese and the Personal Space Invader and attendees will explore sensory "diets" and participate in sensory-themed activities with occupational therapist Shelby from Adventure Therapy Services!
Learn more and register here: https://auroraco.libnet.info/event/14576684
Ofrenda storytime and activities at Denver Botanic Gardens' Helen Fowler library
When: Saturday, October 4, 10:30-11:30 am
Where: Freyer-Newman Center, 1085 York St, Denver, CO 80206
Jolene Gutiérrez will share her book The Ofrenda That We Built and we'll explore some of the elements of an ofrenda through photos, activities, and crafts.
When: Saturday, October 4, 10:30-11:30 am
Where: Freyer-Newman Center, 1085 York St, Denver, CO 80206
Where: Freyer-Newman Center, 1085 York St, Denver, CO 80206
Jolene Gutiérrez will share her book The Ofrenda That We Built and we'll explore some of the elements of an ofrenda through photos, activities, and crafts.
Storytime with LIFE group at Fort Lupton Public and School Library
When: Monday, July 28, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Where: 370 S Rollie Ave, Fort Lupton, CO 80621
Storytime with LIFE group at Fort Lupton Public and School Library
Where: 370 S Rollie Ave, Fort Lupton, CO 80621
Sensory-friendly storytime and activities at Anythink Huron Branch
When: Wednesday, August 5, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Where: 9417 Huron St, Thornton, CO 80260
Jolene Gutiérrez will share her books Too Much! An Overwhelming Day and Mac & Cheese and the Personal Space Invader and attendees will explore sensory "diets" and participate in sensory-themed activities with occupational therapist Kayla Culbertson from Thrive and Shine Therapy LLC! Learn more and RSVP here:
.png)
When: Wednesday, August 5, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Where: 9417 Huron St, Thornton, CO 80260
Where: 9417 Huron St, Thornton, CO 80260
Jolene Gutiérrez will share her books Too Much! An Overwhelming Day and Mac & Cheese and the Personal Space Invader and attendees will explore sensory "diets" and participate in sensory-themed activities with occupational therapist Kayla Culbertson from Thrive and Shine Therapy LLC! Learn more and RSVP here:
Storytime at Relish Food Hall & Pickleball
When: Saturday, July 19, 10:00 a.m.
Where: 550 S McCaslin Blvd. in Louisville, CO - between the Post Office and Safeway
Where: 550 S McCaslin Blvd. in Louisville, CO - between the Post Office and Safeway
Jolene will read copies of her books Too Much! An Overwhelming Day and Mamiachi & Me: My Mami's Mariachi Band. Copies of her books will be available for purchase. Learn more: https://www.visitrelish.com/
American Library Association presenterPhiladelphia
June 26-30, 2025
Book Signing at Pearl Street Farmer's Market with Second Star to the Right Books
When: Sunday, June 1, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Where: 1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Where: 1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Learn more and register here: https://events.humanitix.com/authors-at-the-farmers-market?hxchl=hex-pfl
Professional development presentation for The Colorado Association for the Education of Young Children: Welcoming, Supporting, and Growing Our Understanding of Neurodivergent Students
May 14, 2025 6:30-8:00pm
Online training open to members and nonmembers ($15)
Learn more and register here: https://www.coloradoaeyc.org/events-1/pd-night-welcoming-supporting-and-growing-our-understanding-of-neurodivergent-students
Fort Lupton Public and School Library Cinco de Mayo Celebration
When: Friday, May 2, 4:30-5:30
Where: 370 S Rollie Ave, Fort Lupton, CO 80621
Jolene Gutiérrez will read her book Mamiachi & Me as part of the community’s Cinco de May celebration. Learn more here: https://www.fortluptonco.gov/1182/Cinco-de-mayo
When: Friday, May 2, 4:30-5:30
Where: 370 S Rollie Ave, Fort Lupton, CO 80621
Jolene Gutiérrez will read her book Mamiachi & Me as part of the community’s Cinco de May celebration. Learn more here: https://www.fortluptonco.gov/1182/Cinco-de-mayo
Mamiachi & Ofrenda storytimes
Douglas County Libraries - Philip & Jerry Miller Library
100 S Wilcox St, Castle Rock, CO 80104
Saturday, May 3, 2025 2:00-3:30 pm
Learn more and register here: https://go.dcl.org/event/12036205
Texas Book Festival Reading Rock Star in Dallas/Fort Worth
May 7-9, 2025
110 N Harrison Ave, Lafayette, CO 80026
Saturday, April 26, 2025 9:30 and 10:30 am
Jefferson Junior/Senior High School, 2305 Pierce St, Edgewater, CO 80214
Saturday, April 26, 2025 4:00 – 7:00 pm
1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
Sunday, April 27, 2025 12:00-3:00 pm
Monday, April 7, 2025
1019 10th St, Golden, CO 80401
Wednesday, April 9, 2025 6:00-7:00 pm
8485 Kipling St, Arvada, CO 80005
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 6:00-7:00 pm
110 N Harrison Ave, Lafayette, CO 80026
Thursday, March 27, 2025 10:00-11:00 am
Storytime for Dea at Second Star to the Right Bookstore
1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Saturday, March 29, 2025 12:00-12:45 pm
Learn more and RSVP here: https://events.humanitix.com/the-legacy-lives-on-party?hxchl=amk-eml-hfn&hxref=1-0-0
Highlights Gather Poetry online gathering
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 7:00-8:00 pm EST
Learn more and RSVP here: https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/workshop/free-hfgather-celebrate-national-poetry-month/
.png)
Bear Creek K-8 Author Night with Jolene Gutiérrez
9601 W Dartmouth Pl, Lakewood, CO 80227
Wednesday, April 2, 2025, 4:30-5:30
Writing Barn Poems of Possibility online program
Monday, March 3, 2025 11:00am -12:00 pm MST
Mamiachi and Me Book Launch and Family Storytime!
Mamiachi and Me Book Launch and Family Storytime!
When: January 4 at 11:00 am
Where: Second Star to the Right,1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
A Family Storytime that is truly a Family Storytime. Second Star to the Right is excited to kick off 2025 in celebration of the new book, Mamiachi & Me by local authors, and mother and son: Jolene Gutiérrez and Dakota Gutiérrez. They will be joined by Shaian Gutiérrez, Jolene's daughter and Dakota's sister, to also read The Ofrenda That We Built (a 2024 release, written by Jolene and Shaian). We invite you and your family to join this magical storytime! 
Storytime with Jolene Gutiérrez: Mamiachi and Me
When: Saturday, January 11th, 2025, 10:30 AM- 11:00 AM
Where: The Bookies Bookstore, 2085 S Holly St, Denver, CO 80222
Join us at The Bookies for a special storytime with local author, Jolene Gutiérrez—author of Mamiachi and Me. Learn a little about the history of mariachi music and listen to Jolene read her new children's book.
Early Childhood Education Conference with the Early Childhood Council of Logan, Phillips, and Sedgwick counties:
When: January 25, 2025, 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Where: NJC E.S. French Hall
Jolene will be the lunchtime keynote speaker and will also be presenting about neurodiversity.
Raíces Holiday Market
Sunday, December 8, 2024
11:00am-6:00pm
Join us for our Annual Holiday Market!
Come by from 11:00 to 6 pm to shop from our incredible network of artisans and vendors, all ready to help you check off items from Santa's list!
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1618643179067316/?_rdr
Sunday, December 8, 2024
11:00am-6:00pm
Join us for our Annual Holiday Market!
Come by from 11:00 to 6 pm to shop from our incredible network of artisans and vendors, all ready to help you check off items from Santa's list!
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1618643179067316/?_rdr
.png)
Presenting at the National Council of Teachers of English
When: November 21-24
Where: Boston, MA
Jolene will be co-presenting The Heart to Head Connection: Using Illustrated Narrative Nonfiction to Give Hope to Readers Struggling with Informational Text with Beth Anderson, Carolee Dean, and Debbie Myers and signing books at the Latinx Kidlit Book Festival Booth:
Holiday event at Bookies Bookstore.png)
Jolene will be co-presenting The Heart to Head Connection: Using Illustrated Narrative Nonfiction to Give Hope to Readers Struggling with Informational Text with Beth Anderson, Carolee Dean, and Debbie Myers and signing books at the Latinx Kidlit Book Festival Booth:
When: November 16, 2024, 10:00 am MT
Where: 2085 S Holly St, Denver, CO 80222
Día de los Muertos Storytime at Castle Rock Library--RESCHEDULED FOR MAY 3!
When: November 9, 2024, 2:00 pm
Where: 100 S Wilcox St, Castle Rock, CO 80104
Join Jolene for a Día de Muertos storytime and craft featuring her book THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT. Copies of her book will be sold by Castle Rock's independent bookstore, Sudden Fiction Books. Register here: https://go.dcl.org/event/11862896
Día de los Muertos Storytime at WOW! Children's Museum
When: November 2, 2024, 12:00 pm
Where: 110 N Harrison Ave, Lafayette, CO 80026
Join Jolene for a Día de Muertos storytime featuring her book THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT! Copies of her book will be available! https://wowchildrensmuseum.org/news-events/calendar.html/event/2024/11/02/d-a-de-los-muertos-celebration/500011
Día de Muertos Storytime at the City of Thornton's annual Día de los Muertos Celebration
When: November 2, 2024, 3:00-5:00 pm
Where: McAllister Park Center, 750 W 96th Ave, Thornton, CO 80260
Join Jolene for a Día de Muertos storytime during the city’s annual Día de Muertos celebration! Other events include Monarchs from the Butterfly Pavilion, live music and dancing, vendors and food trucks, educational programs, and more! The entire celebration runs from 12:00-5:00 but Jolene will be at the celebration starting at 3:00.
When: November 2, 2024, 3:00-5:00 pm
Where: McAllister Park Center, 750 W 96th Ave, Thornton, CO 80260
Join Jolene for a Día de Muertos storytime during the city’s annual Día de Muertos celebration! Other events include Monarchs from the Butterfly Pavilion, live music and dancing, vendors and food trucks, educational programs, and more! The entire celebration runs from 12:00-5:00 but Jolene will be at the celebration starting at 3:00.
Eco Cultura En Acción Día de Muertos Storytime
When: October 30, 2024, 6:00 pm
Where: The Bug Theater, 3654 Navajo St, Denver, CO 80211
Join Jolene for a Día de Muertos storytime featuring her book THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT, a presentation about ofrendas, and a book signing amidst other Eco Cultura En Acción food, music, and festivities! RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/let-me-bug-you-eco-cultura-en-accion-tickets-1034572563387?aff=erelexpmlt
Eco Cultura En Acción Día de Muertos Storytime
When: October 30, 2024, 6:00 pm
Where: The Bug Theater, 3654 Navajo St, Denver, CO 80211
Join Jolene for a Día de Muertos storytime featuring her book THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT, a presentation about ofrendas, and a book signing amidst other Eco Cultura En Acción food, music, and festivities! RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/let-me-bug-you-eco-cultura-en-accion-tickets-1034572563387?aff=erelexpmlt
An Enchanting Storytime with Nyasha Williams & Jolene Gutiérrez
When: Saturday, October 26, 11:00 am
Where: Second Star to the Right,1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Join us Saturday morning, October 26, for a storytime with two local authors, Jolene Gutiérrez and Nyasha Williams!
RSVP here: https://events.humanitix.com/an-enchanting-storytime-with-nyasha-williams-and-jolene-gutierrez
Día de Muertos Festival with Edgewater Collective
Where: Jefferson Junior/Senior High School, 2305 Pierce St, Edgewater, CO 80214
When: October 26, 2024, 4:00-7:00 pm MT
As part of the festival, Jolene will be reading her book, The Ofrenda That We Built, and leading a papel picado-making craft. Copies of her book will be raffled at the festival and there will be copies available for purchase through 32nd Avenue Books. Learn more here: https://edgewaterecho.com/2024/10/dia-de-los-muertos-celebration-at-jefferson-junior-senior-high-school/
Tattered Cover, Stanley Marketplace KIDS store
Día de los Muertos Storytime
When: October 27, 2024, 2:00 pm MT
Where: Tattered Cover, Stanley Marketplace KIDS store, 2501 Dallas St Suite 144, Aurora, CO 80010
32nd Avenue Books, Toys, & Gifts
Book signing and Storytime with Jolene Gutiérrez during Highlands Neighborhood Harvest Fest
When: October 27, 2024, 3:00 pm
Where: 32nd Avenue Books, Toys, & Gifts, 3633 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
Please join us on Storytime on October 27 with Jolene Gutiérrez, a Colorado author.
Come with your costume and enjoy time with the author and an activity for Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead. Learn more and order your copy here:
https://32ndavenuebooks.indiecommerce.com/event/book-signing-and-storytime-jolene-gutierrez
Highlights Foundation Research Tips and Techniques: A Two-Night Mini Class
When: October 22 and 24, 5:00-6:15 pm MST
Where: online, more information hereJoin authors Stephanie Gibeault, Jolene Gutiérrez, and Anita Yasuda as they share the tools and strategies writers need to dig into research with confidence..png)
When: October 22 and 24, 5:00-6:15 pm MST
Where: online, more information here
Colorado State University Office of Engagement and Extension, Northeast Regional Engagement Center
When: October 17
Jolene will be touring schools in northeastern Colorado, signing books, and helping celebrate our community ofrenda!
Old Firehouse Books, Fort Collins
Día de los Muertos Storytime
https://fb.me/e/3ZbGJ9xyD
When: October 13, 2024, 10:30 am MT
Where: Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St, Fort Collins, CO
September 21, 2024, 2:00-4:00 pm MST
Belmar branch, Jefferson County Public Library
Colorado Author Showcase: Local Author Presentations and Sales
When: September 21, 2024, 2:00-4:00 pm MST
Where: Belmar branch, Jefferson County Public Library, 555 S Allison Pkwy, Lakewood, CO 80226
Join local authors who write for readers of all ages as we share information about ourselves and our books. Books will be available for purchase. Learn more here.
Where: Belmar branch, Jefferson County Public Library, 555 S Allison Pkwy, Lakewood, CO 80226
Join local authors who write for readers of all ages as we share information about ourselves and our books. Books will be available for purchase. Learn more here.
September 16, 2024, 4:00 pm MST
Belmar branch, Jefferson County Public Library
Living Presence: Day of the Dead Ofrendas with Jolene Gutiérrez
September 14, 2024
Virtual Author Visit
September 9, 2024
Keys to Successful Writing Partnerships
August 10, 2024
THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT! Storytime at The Bookies
When: Saturday, August 10, 10:30 am
Where: The Bookies Bookstore, 2085 South Holly Street, Denver, CO 80222
Join Jolene Gutiérrez for storytime as we learn more about the Day of the Dead and celebrate ofrendas with this cumulative family story, THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT! More information here: https://thebookies.com/events/361520240810
August 9, 2024
Instagram LIVE Book Birthday celebration with Highlights Foundation! Find the video and blog post here: https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/2024/08/12/celebrating-a-book-birthday-with-jolene-and-shaian-gutierrez/
August 3, 2024
Book Launch for THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT! at Second Star
Book Launch for THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT! at Second Star
When: Saturday, August 3, 11:00 am
Where: Second Star to the Right,1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Join Jolene Gutiérrez for a book launch party and storytime as we learn more about the Day of the Dead and celebrate ofrendas with this cumulative family story, THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT! Please RSVP here.
When: Saturday, August 3, 11:00 am
Where: Second Star to the Right,1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Join Jolene Gutiérrez for a book launch party and storytime as we learn more about the Day of the Dead and celebrate ofrendas with this cumulative family story, THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT! Please RSVP here.
July 24 and 30, 2024
Present classes for students in 4 different countries in Africa through the Village Voices/Village Scholars/Village Libraries program.
July 20, 2024
Reading with the Rabbits!
Reading with the Rabbits!
With Leona and Leona's rabbits from their Youtube Channel, Reading with the Rabbits: https://www.youtube.com/@readingwiththerabbits
When: Saturday, July 20 from 9:00 am-10:30 am
Where: Colorado Tap House, 14982 W 69th Ave, Arvada, CO 80007
Where: Colorado Tap House, 14982 W 69th Ave, Arvada, CO 80007
I'll be sharing Too Much! An Overwhelming Day. There will also be other read-alouds and fun activities!
July 15 and 17, 2024
Author visits with four Scholars Unlimited summer programs
July 13, 2024
PICTURE BOOK PARTY!
When: Saturday, July 13, 11:00 am
Where: Second Star to the Right,1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Join kidlit creators Jamie Siebrase, Brittany Cicchese, Carmela Coyle, and Jolene Gutiérrez for this amazing story- and craft-filled Picture Book Party! Please RSVP here.
When: Saturday, July 13, 11:00 am
Where: Second Star to the Right,1455 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Join kidlit creators Jamie Siebrase, Brittany Cicchese, Carmela Coyle, and Jolene Gutiérrez for this amazing story- and craft-filled Picture Book Party! Please RSVP here.
.png)
June 8, 2024
Lyons Library Lit Fest: Celebrate the Power and Importance of Books, Storytelling and Community
When: Saturday, June 8, 10:00am
Where: Lyons Community Library, 451 4th Avenue, Lyons, CO 80540
Keynote speakers, writing workshops, author meet-and-greets, crafts and more! To celebrate the power and importance of books, storytelling and community.
May 4, 2024
WOW! Children's Museum Book Festival with books provided by The Read Queen Bookstore & Cafe.
WHEN: Saturday, May 4, 1pm - 4pm (I'll be there from 1:00-2:30 and I'll be sharing TOO MUCH! AN OVERWHELMING DAY and we'll be fingerprinting with yogurt)
WHERE: WOW! Children’s Museum, 110 N Harrison Avenue, Lafayette
December 2023
Too Much! An Overwhelming Day has been named one of Bookstagang's Best Books of 2023 and received Bookstagang's Community award for Best Conversation Starter. It's also been named one of Imagination Soup's Best Books of 2023!
August through November, 2023
Click on the image for clickable RSVP links (when available) to each of the following events. I can't wait to see you at one or more of these venues to celebrate my beautiful new picture book, TOO MUCH! An Overwhelming Day:
.png)
August 12-13 and 19-20, 2023
Join Stephanie Gibeault, Anita Yasuda, Jacqui Lipton, Feather Flores, and me as we teach a Research Intensive through Highlights Foundation.
.png)
August 10, 2023
Storytime at Wow! Children's Museum
August 8, 2023
Storytime at The Bookies!
August 5, 2023
The official TOO MUCH! An Overwhelming Day book launch! Join us at Second Star to the Right with occupational therapists from STAR Institute. Click below to get your free ticket to attend!
May 8 & 10, 2023
Join Stephanie Gibeault, Anita Yasuda, and me as we teach Rock Your Research & Proposals through Highlights Foundation.
.png)
April 15, 2023
I'll be presenting at the International Reading Association's Reading in the City conference with Carolee Dean and Beth Anderson. Our session title is “Using Narratives as a Bridge to Informational Text.”
February 7, 2023--Community Love of Reading Event!
I was able to present to students and their families and the district offered 30 copies of my book Bionic Beasts to kids attending.
January 3, 2023--You May Contribute a Verse Podcast
Brenna Jeanneret and Josh Monken interviewed me on their amazing podcast:
December 10, 2022--Craft fair/book signing at the Aspen PK-8 School with my friend Laura Roettiger.
October 1, 2022--I presented at the Castle Rock Writers' Conference. 
June 28, 2022--We announced the book deal for Shaian's and my book The Ofrenda That We Built.
May 19, 2022--We announced the book deal for my book Too Much! An Overwhelming Day.
March 2022--North Carolina Reading Association's teaching STEAM in classrooms panel.
February 2022--Presented with the Rocky Mountain Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators at CCIRA.
November 2021--Second Star to the Right bookstore's Book Bash panel on the intersectionality between nonfiction and science fiction.
September 2021--Presented to the Columbus Council of the North Carolina Reading Association on using STEAM, SEL, and music to offer learning opportunities to students.
August 2021--My name was added to Teaching Books' audio name pronunciation site!
July 2021--Featured on Maria Marshall's blog with my KidLit Collective book group
May 25, 2021--Featured on Shoutout Colorado
March 31, 2021--Featured on Lydia Lukidis's blog discussing the song that Annie Lynn and I created, Space Creator
March 19, 2021--Virtual presentation for students in Texas schools during their "Literature and Lunch" program.
January 27, 2021--Featured on Andrew Hacket's "The Backstory" sharing the stories behind Mac and Cheese and the Personal Space Invader and Bionic Beasts.
December 18, 2020--Featured on Kate Narita's Chalk + Ink podcast!
December 5, 2020--Part of Children's Book Academy Picture Book Palooza Social Justice Panel
November 15, 2020--Bionic Beast book launch with Second Star to the Right Books
Fall 2020--Featured on Jedlie's Reading With Your Kids podcast!
Bionic Beasts Blog tour/promotion:
August 18, 2020--Detroit Writer's Room presentation
August 11, 2020--Mac and Cheese and the Personal Space Invader book launch with Second Star to the Right Books
August 11, 2020--Featured on Voyage Denver.
August 11, 2020--Mac and Cheese's book birthday!
Mac and Cheese Blog tour/promotion:
July 14, 2018--Submitting my Original Judo Brothers 1964 manuscript, I received the Cynthia Levinson scholarship to The Writing Barn's Complete Picture Book Biography Intensive! Here's what Cynthia had to say: "Based on the potential for your manuscript and your seriousness of purpose, I am delighted to award you a scholarship to attend the class on nonfiction picture books at The Writing Barn. I hope this intensive experience will give you the boost you need to take your work to the next level and, ultimately, share your story with readers."
March 27, 2018--I received the Yuyi Morales scholarship to the Children's Book Academy Craft & Business of Writing Children's Picture Books, and wow, the Children's Book Academy class was such a wonderful learning and growth opportunity!
July 17-23, 2016--I attended the Highlights Summer Writing Camp in beautiful Honesdale, Pennsylvania and was able to work with amazing teachers like Kathy Erskine, Jan Cheripko, Susan Campbell Bartoletti, Lamar Giles, Jillian Sullivan, Alison Green Myers, Clara Gillow Clark, Peter Jacobi, and my mentor Mitali Perkins. I learned so much and made wonderful connections with the other attendees, too. I'm sure we'll see many of their books in print soon!
Mitali Perkins and Jolene
February 17, 2016--Winding Oak interviewed me for their online BOOKOLOGY magazine--here's their blurb about it: We love these middle school librarians who approach their work with gusto and creativity and dedication. Meet Jolene Gutiérrez from Denver Academy: http://bit.ly/1opKApK
February 27, 2014--The Stuart Middle School Library's Raptor Writing program invited me back this year. I'm excited to see the kids again!
April 25, 2013--Presented at the Stuart Middle School Library's Raptor Writing Workshop--met some amazing young writers!
April 3, 2012--Visit the Vamps, Weres and Cassay blog to read my post about writing for reluctant readers, for a chance to win a signed copy of my book, AND Cassay will donate $1 to the Alberta Special Olympics for every comment left!
March 23, 2012--Journal Advocate ran an article about my author visit to Caliche Junior/Senior High School.
February 1, 2012--My book and I are being featured on Denver Academy's newly redesigned website!
September 20, 2011--Book review on Live to Read
September 9, 2011--Book review on Books Complete Me
August 24, 2011--Book review on Vamps, Weres, and Cassay OH My!
July, 2011--Created a Facebook author page. I'd love it if you'd "Like" my page! ;)
Author Jolene GutierrezJuly 4, 2011--Author interview on iLive, iLaugh, iLove Books
June, 2011--Finished designing my bookmarks!
May 28, 2011--Author Interview @ Annette's Book Spot
