Southwest Children's Literature

Sun Logo


The Woman Who Outshone the Sun/La mujer que brillaba aún más que el sol

About the Reviewers: This is a photograph of Lizelda and Susan(Fall 2005)

I, Lizelda Durazo, was born in Whittier, California. Mayra, my older sister by 4 years, and I were raised by our single mother, Angela Merino. I grew up in California and finished all of my school years there.

I had no idea that life was about to repeat itself. I have a young boy to raise on my own. Being the youngest daughter, I found my way back to my mother for support and guidance. This is what brought me to Tucson, Arizona.
With a son to nurture and a future to build, I found myself being pulled toward a life of teaching. I know I can't change everything in the world for children, but I can contribute by being the best teacher I can be. With all my love, I dedicate my teaching career to my son, who is my inspiration.

My name is Susan Teso. I am a native Tucsonan attending Northern Arizona University. As a child, I was captivated with storytelling and would often translate stories into Spanish for my grandmother. I love to write poetry and enjoy the process of creative writing. I hope to write children's books in the future.

I am looking forward to the day that I become a second-grade teacher. I also hope to become a catechism teacher because I feel so blessed in my life and believe having a solid, religious foundation is the reason for it. I want to encourage children not only in their academic learning but in their faith as well.

I have always loved being around children, and I believe that every child is unique in everything they do. Their sweet innocence is the true beauty in our world.