Meet Jeanette
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here.
I’m Jeanette Gil — a children’s book author, storyteller, educator, and proud Abuela. I believe stories are more than words on a page; they are bridges between generations, cultures, and hearts. I write for children, but I create with families in mind — the grown-ups who read aloud, the grandparents who pass down wisdom, and the children who are quietly becoming who they’re meant to be.
I was born and raised in Miami, shaped deeply by my Cuban heritage and the stories of my grandmother. Some of my earliest lessons didn’t come from books, but from cafecito at the kitchen table, from listening closely, and from watching resilience modeled in everyday life. Those moments taught me that storytelling is not just entertainment — it’s identity, healing, and connection.
Becoming a grandmother was the best promotion I’ve ever received. My grandchildren inspired my first picture book, Aloe Vera’s Special Gift, a story rooted in the symbolism of the aloe plant — strength, healing, and quiet resilience. That story became the beginning of something much bigger: a growing body of work, an educational framework, and a mission to help children see themselves as worthy, capable, and deeply connected to their roots.
Through my writing, speaking, and educational work, I aim to honor legacy while creating space for growth. I believe children deserve stories where they feel seen. Families deserve tools that invite reflection and conversation. And culture deserves to be preserved — lovingly, intentionally, and joyfully.
This space is an extension of that belief. Whether you’re here as a parent, educator, librarian, fellow writer, or curious soul, my hope is that you leave feeling encouraged, grounded, and reminded that your story — and your child’s — matters.
With gratitude & expectation,
Jeanette
"Some of my earliest lessons didn’t come from books, but from cafecito at the kitchen table, from listening closely, and from watching resilience modeled in everyday life."
My Professional Bio
Jeanette Gil is a children’s book author, educator, and doctoral candidate in Applied Learning Sciences whose work bridges storytelling, cultural identity, and intentional learning. She is the founder of Zun Zun Press, an independent imprint under Ceiba Creative LLC, dedicated to publishing culturally rooted children’s literature that supports social-emotional learning, identity development, and family connection.
Born and raised in Miami, Jeanette draws heavily from her Cuban heritage and the influence of her grandmother’s storytelling traditions. Her debut picture book, Aloe Vera’s Special Gift, uses the aloe plant as a metaphor for resilience, healing, and self-worth, offering young readers a gentle yet powerful message about inner strength. The book has since expanded into a broader ecosystem of companion resources, educational materials, and school-based programming.
In addition to her work as an author, Jeanette is pursuing an EdD in Applied Learning Sciences at the University of Miami, where her research focuses on bilingual storytelling, culturally responsive children’s literature, and identity formation in early learners. She brings a strong interdisciplinary background, holding an MBA and a Bachelor of Applied Science, and previously served in higher education administration, experiences that inform her structured, research-driven approach to creative work.
Jeanette regularly collaborates with educators, librarians, schools, and community organizations to deliver author visits, workshops, and literacy programs designed to inspire curiosity, confidence, and cultural pride. Her work reflects a deep commitment to preserving heritage while empowering the next generation of readers and storytellers.
At the heart of everything she does is a simple belief: stories have the power to shape how children see themselves and the world. Through intentional storytelling and thoughtful education, Jeanette Gil continues her mission to nurture resilience, honor legacy, and create meaningful learning experiences for families and communities.
Extend the Story Beyond the Page
Bring Aloe Vera’s Special Gift into your classroom or home with this FREE, ready-to-use lesson plan designed to support self-worth, kindness, and meaningful conversation. Instant digital download when you enter your information below.
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fun facts
12 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ME
1) Favorite Language? I speak Spanish, English and a little bit of “abuela” (you know, the one filled with cariño and unsolicited advice).
2) Favorite City? Miami, born and raised.
3) Favorite Instrument? Acoustic Guitar, can't wait share my love for music with my grandbabies!
4) I’m a proud Abuela Gigi- Best promotion and title ever!
5) Silver hair? It's not just hair, each strand tells a story, a true reflection of my identity.
6) Favorite Drink? Cafecito, Colada, Cortadito!
7) Favorite Snack? Croquetas!
8) Favorite Dessert? Flan and Chocolate are my thing !
9) Favorite Plant? Aloe vera (my healing secret)
10) I’m all about magic-I believe in the kind that’s in everyday moments, not just in fairy tales.
11) Lifelong learner - Learning is the key to unlocking new possibilities.
12) Favorite Exercise? Spinning - even though my feet never touch the ground, it keeps me grounded.
Contact
I love hearing from my readers! Please reach out to info@jeanettegil.com
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