Gabriela Tijerina is a Latina illustrator, children's book author and cartoonist from Laredo, Texas. During her childhood, Tijerina loved to watch cartoons, read comics and write stories she'd then shared with her family and friends. She now pulls from these memories to create work that is eclectically fun yet sentimental.

In 2022, Tijerina published her debut children's book, Abuela's Fideo: a Story of a Grandma's Love. In this heartwarming story, Tijerina touches on themes of grief and family while connecting to her young audience. In 2023, Abuela's Fideo was awarded Commended Title Winner by the Consortium of Latin American Studies Programs. Since then she has worked with fellow author Monica Velasquez as her illustrator for her newest book "La Rosca De Reyes: Who got the baby?" Tijerina is excitedly working on new projects she can't wait to share.

Before she stepped into the work of picture books, Tijerina earned her BFA at Otis College of Art and Design in 2022 with emphases in both illustration and animation. During her time at Otis, she was awarded The Studio Distinction Award.

When not in her studio, she is probably reading, looking at birds, watching horror movies, drinking iced tea or spending time with her loved ones.

(Including her adorable senior Maltese named Penny)

​

Tijerina is currently based in San Antonio, Texas