We welcome Carlos to the Gnome Road Publishing team as he takes on the challenge of illustrating Amber Mae and Her Strays by author Candace Spizzirri. With his gorgeous use of color, eye for detail, and impressive imagination, we know this tale of good intentions turned comedic chaos will become a forever favorite with animal lovers everywhere. 

Learn More

Carlos Vélez Aguilera, born and based in Mexico City, has been illustrating professionally since 2008. A graduate of the Faculty of Arts and Design at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), he has illustrated over 20 books for national and international publishers, specializing in children’s and young adult literature. His work has earned several awards, including second place in the 21st Catalog of Illustrators of Children’s and Young Adult Publications in 2011, selection for the FONCA Young Creators Program in Graphic Narrative in 2015, and inclusion in the National System of Creators in 2020. His publications include Claudia Said Sí!: The Story of Mexico's First Woman President, written by Deborah Bodin Cohen and Kerry Olitzky; Tia Sofia and the Giant Tortilla, written by Felicia Cocotzin Ruiz; and the author-illustrated Salón Destino.