“Depicts wonderful examples of kindness, community, and delicious paletas.” — Booklist (starred review)

Lucky Diaz is a GRAMMY Award-winning, multi–Latin Grammy-winning, multi–EMMY nominated author, musician, and taco lover whose storytelling spans music, television, and literature. As a first-generation Mexican-American, his work celebrates identity, joy, and community, bringing vibrant, bilingual narratives to young readers.

His debut picture book, Paletero Man, became an instant classic, earning starred reviews from Kirkus, School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, and ALA Booklist. Recognized for its heartfelt storytelling and cultural richness, the book established Lucky as a dynamic voice in children’s literature. All his picture books including La Guitarrista and his most recent, Fix-It Familia, continue his mission of uplifting Latiné stories.

Before entering the literary world, Lucky redefined family entertainment as the frontman of Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band. His trailblazing career in children’s music earned historic Grammy and Latin Grammy wins and acclaim from Billboard, NPR, and The New York Times. His Emmy-winning PBS series, Lishy Lou and Lucky Too, showcased his creativity in children’s television.

Lucky lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Alisha, their daughter, Indiana, and their dog, Django.

Lucky's Featured Titles

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Live Performance

Lucky will spend the first 20-30 minutes of stage time delivering a slide lecture and then 20-30 minutes of singing songs and explaining the creative process, answering questions from audience members. Lucky has travelled the world from Shanghai to Monterrey, Mexico presenting to students in Pre-K through college. Lucky will focus on different creative topics, depending on the age group. Every age level will be excited and inspired by Lucky’s live presentation while he fields their questions!

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Songwriting for Everyone!

In this workshop, Lucky will share how and why he became a songwriter at a young age (he rode his bicycle to his first lessons)! Lucky will then discuss and play the structure of a song: chords, chorus, verse, bridge, etc. This fully interactive workshop will then take suggestions from the students as to the topics the song will be about. Together, Lucky will guide the children through the entire process of writing a song. At the end, the song will be recorded and sent as a huge, fun takeaway!

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Let’s Write a Story!

This workshop begins with Lucky discussing how and why he chooses certain topics from his life (anything from food to emotions, immigration to hot rods) for telling story. He will then delve into character, world and adventure. Together, Lucky till guide the student in their own storytelling journey. Ideas will be explored and celebrated, culminating in sharing and discussion.

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Professional Development: Integrating Music and Storytelling to Enhance Literacy

Music is a powerful tool for developing literacy, especially for young learners. This session explores how rhythm, melody, and storytelling enhance language acquisition, comprehension, and engagement.

Session Highlights:
• The impact of music on early literacy and language skills
• Strategies for incorporating songs and rhythm into reading sessions
• Using Brillo Brillo (Grammy-winning album) as an example of music-driven storytelling
• Hands-on activity: Creating simple songs based on reading materials
• Q&A and resource sharing

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Professional Development: Celebrating Cultural Diversity Through Bilingual Literature

Language and culture are deeply connected. This session explores how bilingual books enrich students’ literacy experiences and strengthen cultural identity. Educators will learn how to use bilingual literature to create an inclusive learning environment.

Session Highlights:
• The role of bilingual books in literacy and cultural identity
• Strategies for engaging dual-language learners through storytelling
• Interactive reading and discussion of Paletero Man and La Guitarrista
• Q&A and best practices for bilingual literacy

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Professional Development: Engaging Reluctant Readers Through Creative Arts

Some students struggle with reading because they don’t see themselves reflected in books or find traditional approaches uninspiring. This session introduces creative strategies—such as music, drama, and visual arts—to help reluctant readers develop a love for books.

Session Highlights:
• Understanding the challenges reluctant readers face
• How the arts can make reading more accessible and enjoyable
• Using La Guitarrista as an example of an engaging, high-energy reading experience
• Hands-on activity: Designing an interactive literacy lesson using music and storytelling
• Q&A and sharing success stories

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Professional Development: Building Community Connections Through Storytelling

Stories are bridges that connect us to our past, our families, and our communities. This session highlights ways educators can use storytelling to foster belonging, encourage collaboration, and build strong relationships between students, families, and local communities.

Session Highlights:
• The role of storytelling in fostering a sense of belonging
• Engaging families and local communities in literacy initiatives
• Using Fix-It Familia as a model for family-centered storytelling
• Workshop: Brainstorming community-based storytelling projects
• Q&A and idea exchange

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Professional Development

Each session is designed to be engaging, interactive, and tailored to the needs of the audience. Presentations can be adapted for keynote speeches, hands-on workshops, or panel discussions.

Session Options:
• Keynote Presentation: 45–60 minutes
• Interactive Workshop: 60–90 minutes
• Panel Discussion Participation: Flexible

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Harmonizing Education: A Creative Journey in Storytelling and Music

This workshop, led by Multi-GRAMMY award-winning author and musician Lucky Diaz, empowers educators to transform their classrooms through the art of storytelling and music. Participants will learn innovative techniques to engage students, foster creativity, and create an inclusive, vibrant learning environment. Ideal for educators seeking to inspire and connect with their students on a deeper level.

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Lucky in the News

Lucky’s Gallery of Photos

Lucky’s Music Videos

Lucky’s Cameo

Honors, Awards & Recognition

Grammy Award Winner, 2025
Alma Flor Alda Book Award winner, 2024
Two-Time Latin Grammy Award Winner, Five-Time Nominee
Three-Time Grammy Award Nominee
Six-Time Emmy Nominee
American Library Association Notable Work-Official Selection
Parent’s Choice Gold Award Winner
National Parent Publication Gold Award
Junior Library Gold Medalist
People Magazine #1 Kids Music
Standout Indi-Rock for Kids, CNN
The Face of Kindie Music, New York Magazine
#1 Coolest Kids Music, People Magazine
Best New Artist, Kids Music, USA Today

Media Kit

By clicking the link below you will be directed to a Google Docs Folder
where you can download author photos and cover images.

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