Karold Santosus Pantaleon and her family chose Gulfport because they wanted a community that was “open, inclusive, and full of heart,” she told The Gabber Newspaper.
Photo via Karold Santosus Pantaleon1. Why did you write ¿Solo, Solé?
I wrote ¿Solo, Solé? because I wanted to tell a story that my children, and kids like them, could truly see themselves in. Growing up Dominican American, I didn’t see many books that reflected both cultures or languages in a natural, heartfelt way. I wanted to create something bilingual and full of warmth, that reminds kids they’re never really alone when they have family and community around them.
2. The book offers young readers a wonderful bilingual experience. Why did you decide to write it in “Spanglish”? (Are those your words on Amazon?)
Yes, those are my words! I chose to write in Spanglish because it’s how many of us speak and think. It’s part of our identity. For me, it’s not about switching between two languages; it’s about blending them into one rhythm that feels real and familiar. I wanted kids who hear both English and Spanish at home to feel seen and celebrated.
3. What do you want readers to take away from the book?
I want readers, especially little ones, to feel comforted and connected. Even when you feel different, or like you don’t belong, family and love are always there, sometimes in ways you don’t even realize. It’s a story about belonging, identity, and the reminder that we are never truly alone.
Pantaleon hopes the book helps kids feel “comforted and connected.”
Book cover image courtesy of Karold Santosus Pantaleon4. What brought you to Gulfport?
My husband and I wanted to raise our family in a community that’s open, inclusive, and full of heart. Gulfport immediately felt like home. It’s such a creative, welcoming city. Perfect for raising our daughter and building a life surrounded by kindness and color.
5. Tell us about your writing process.
My writing process started with wanting to create something my kids could relate to. I thought about what I wanted them to know about who they are. Dominican, American, loved, and never alone. From there, I built the story around that feeling. I wrote during nap times, late nights, and in between everyday family moments. It was very much a heart project.
6. What’s next for you?
Right now, I’m focused on raising my daughter and embracing family life.
7. The big question: Key lime pie or strawberry shortcake?
Strawberry shortcake, hands down! It was my absolute go-to dessert while I was pregnant with my daughter, so it’ll always hold a special place in my heart.
The Gabber Newspaper has donated its review copy of Karold Santosus Pantaleon’s book to the Gulfport Public Library.
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