Celebrating AAPI Voices: Local Author Jade Amez and the Power of Representation

Title: Celebrating AAPI Voices: Local Author Jade Amez and the Power of Representation
By Read With Me MN

5/21/2025

As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we are honored to shine a spotlight on local author Jade Amez, whose heartfelt children’s book Where Am I From? speaks volumes about identity, belonging, and representation.

Jade joined us for a virtual fundraiser earlier this year, where she shared her personal journey and the inspiration behind her work. Her story resonated deeply with attendees, especially as she described her motivation for writing the book:

“I didn’t see as much representation growing up as a child. There weren’t a lot of children’s books that had Asian communities or Asian families—let alone mixed families in them.”

Born from her own experiences as an adoptee, Where Am I From? is more than a book—it’s a message of hope and understanding for children and families navigating complex identities. Jade explained:

“As I kind of healed on my adoption journey, I decided to share my story in the form of a children’s book to help other adoptees, other kids, other families show that families don’t all look the same—and that’s totally okay.”

By sharing her story, Jade helps normalize diverse family dynamics and encourages young readers to embrace their unique backgrounds. Representation like this is critical, not only during AAPI Month but year-round, because it fosters empathy, confidence, and a deeper understanding of our communities.

We are so grateful to Jade for joining us and for creating a space where young voices feel seen and heard. You can learn more about Where Am I From? and explore her work at whereamifrombook.com.