Thank you so much for the read-aloud and discussion today. I have received such amazing feedback from the teachers. The students loved all of it… One of my former students, who is an ELL student, now in 3rd grade, cried from your story about not learning to truly read until 4th grade. This particular student was very moved by all your stories. She is also a struggling reader, is bilingual at home, and has family in another country. She was able to connect with your story and your history… Thank you again for such a wonderful experience for those kids. We truly appreciated the experience. 

- Meaghan Weiss, RTI Teacher, Mt. Markham Elementary School

We were absolutely thrilled to have you at P.S. 132, and I can’t begin to express how special it was for our students (and for me!) to experience their very first author visit with you. Your energy, warmth, and authenticity filled the room, and our students are still talking about Plátanos Are Love with so much excitement and pride. Seeing the joy on their faces as they connected with your story, their roots, and their families was unforgettable. You created a moment they will carry with them for a long time, and I am truly grateful for that. Our staff also felt your passion and loved how you engaged our students with such care and enthusiasm. You made the entire day feel magical.

-Jarisa Santiago, ELA Teacher, P.S. 132

Alyssa captivated our K-2 students with an interactive read-aloud, seamlessly integrating body movements and thought-provoking questions. Her engaging approach ensured high levels of student involvement and participation throughout the sessions. Alyssa's presence had a profound impact on my students, and her session was very engaging. Witnessing the students connect with the relevant content in her books was gratifying and significantly enriched their learning experience. Our author study on Alyssa, combined with her visit to our school, offered a valuable learning opportunity. I am confident that the inspiration she instilled will continue to flourish within our learning community. This spring, students will be showcasing their own published books during a special breakfast with loved ones, further cementing the impact of Alyssa's visit. I am also excited about the potential for future collaborations and partnerships. Alyssa's dedication to storytelling and education aligns perfectly with our school's values, presenting numerous opportunities to enhance our students' educational experiences through a partnership.

-Jennifer Spina, Principal, The Charter School of Educational Excellence

Alyssa was wonderful! She began by sharing a bit about herself and her family, then introduced her engaging and beautifully written book. Students especially enjoyed being able to see the book both in print and projected on the screen, allowing them to appreciate all the details. Following the reading, Alyssa led a craft activity that the students absolutely loved. Her clear, simple instructions made it easy for each child to create and take home a special project—a perfect way to end a delightful visit. Alyssa’s time with us was a perfect blend of literacy, creativity, and inspiration, and we are so grateful for the enthusiasm and care she brought to our neighborhood library. We were honored to welcome Alyssa, who visited to share their book with our students. We appreciate her generosity in taking the time to engage with our young readers and enrich their learning experience. The visit brought great inspiration and excitement to our local Kindergarten classes!

-Joy Kicinski, Olney Library (Free Library of Philadelphia)

I must start by saying WOW!!!! Our faculty and students...all have been raving about your time here at AFS. You had all of the classes engaged, and spoke honestly. I so enjoyed working with you in the planning and the time spent together on campus. Your energy, optimism and passion for your work was wonderful and inspiring. We would love to have you back any time!

— Sloane Waldman (She/Her/Hers), Director of Parent Engagement and Special Events at Abington Friends School

AMAZING! She was great with the kids being so young and asking them age-appropriate questions. She kept the presentation at a length that works well for how young they are. We appreciate Alyssa coming and doing such a great job! We had some technical difficulties on our end and she was so kind about it.

— Heather Yost, Enoch Pratt Library

Fantastic! The children enjoyed the read-aloud and liked answering her questions. She had everything the children needed for the craft and gave simple instructions that made the craft easy and fun for all ages. Everything went smoothly. Alyssa's communication was excellent from beginning to end. She was very engaging, and the children loved her book. I wish I'd had more copies of her book available because all were checked out immediately after the program! We will definitely have Alyssa back if we are able in the future.

— Megan Whalen, Librarian at the Free Library of Philadelphia

She was so good. From her presentation material to her personality and delivery. I love how generous she was in sharing her knowledge and what she's learned. My only regret is that her 60-minute talk wasn't longer!

— José Diaz, Pittsburgh Latinx Artist Residency

This was the highlight of the Hispanic Heritage Month kickoff celebration! I was inspired to cook with my Mom and my Son. Thank you for sharing your story! We were pleased with her professionalism. Her book is beautiful and relatable.

— St. Christopher's Hospital for Children

The Bayard Taylor staff and students thank you for the visit and for the opportunity to hear your wonderful book Platanos are Love. The students really enjoyed the beautiful visuals and cultural connection as you told them stories from your childhood. The collaboration with INDEX and State Rep Burgos was wonderful in honor of Juan Pablo Duarte. We look forward to visits and further collaboration. 

— Assistant Principal Charles from Bayard Taylor School

Alyssa’s Highlights course, Getting the Gig: A Two-Night Mini on Speaking Opportunities for Storytellers, was filled with useful information, clear and concise examples, and valuable tools for authors in all stages!

— Steena Hernandez, Author and Consultation Client

Alyssa did a wonderful job of interacting with the families before, during, and after the reading. The reading itself was beautiful and emotional. She held the attention of both adults and children during the storytime. The kids were engaged, asking questions and copying the motions she made. I was also satisfied with the onboarding and planning process. Alyssa was responsive, enthusiastic, and very organized.

— Tenaja, The Lit Bar Bookstore

Your energy and passion are awesome, and you’re so encouraging! I especially benefited from learning about one sheets, contracts, and setting fees.

- Hannah Lorenzo, Author and Consultation Client

We so appreciate you coming. You were so engaging, and the craft was adorable. I appreciate how much time you spent connecting with each patron that attended. Alyssa made the booking process incredibly easy. She was organized and communicated well throughout the entire process. I'm very grateful. Can't wait to have you back!

— Karen Mitchell, Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library

Alyssa, chica! I just finished watching your presentation, Getting the Gig. You are amazing. This is one of the best webinars I have attended. I have two PBs coming out next year and the information you presented is so valuable.

— Sandra Martin, Author and Consultation Client

Fantastic! The children enjoyed the read-aloud and liked answering her questions. She had everything the children needed for the craft and gave simple instructions that made the craft easy and fun for all ages. Alyssa was very engaging, and the children loved her book. I wish I'd had more copies of her book available because all were checked out immediately after the program! We will definitely have Alyssa back if we are able in the future.

— Megan Whalen, Free Library of Philadelphia

I so enjoyed your Getting the Gig workshop and want to thank you for the great information you shared.

— Elisa Fleener, Writer

The Story of Self Training I attended led by Alyssa was a powerful experience for me as an instructor, scholar-activist, and educational trainer.  I went in order to strengthen my storytelling and ability to move others to action on issues I care about deeply. I received that and more.  Not only will I be better able to market my own trainings by sharing my story, the training inspired me to incorporate Public Narrative into my social justice education courses and now I am going through the process with my students. Alyssa has since coached me as I further develop my story and I am absolutely on fire!

— Rochelle Peterson-Ansari, CEO of Perceptions Unlimited and Adjunct Professor of Education at Arcadia University

Last fall, [Alyssa] helped me with a story I was working on about hiking (TITLE REMOVED FOR PRIVACY REASONS). Her suggestions to add in more sensory language and onomatopoeia were spot-on...Things always seem so obvious when someone else points them out! I had been feeling like my ending was too preachy too - your confirmation gives me the confidence to shorten and change it a bit! Thanks again for taking the time to give me such a detailed critique.

— Katie Brandyberry, Children’s Literature Writer

Thank you so much! I appreciate ALL of your feedback and insights. They were clearly incredibly helpful. I look forward to working with you more in the future! I will certainly pass on your name to fellow writers. I'm excited to query/submit this :D Thank you so much for your help. Can't wait till your book comes out....congratulations to you, again, and thank you for everything!

— Carly E.S., Children’s Literature Writer

Incredible! Such contagious energy that kept us all active and engaged. I want to send a sincere thank you for your insight! There were so many nuggets of wisdom and actionable steps that have really been helping me. Thank you for your time and I really look forward to continuing to follow your career and engage with you further down the line!

— Fernanda Ruiz, PLAR Pittsburgh Latinx Artist Residency

Thank you SO much for sharing your story during our Teach Latine/X institute. Honestly, I could have listened to you all day! …  Please know that you are truly appreciated! Can't wait to share more of your work with my students and friends' children.

- LaShawan, CA Kindergarten Teacher

Alyssa is super dynamic and sharp! She is very determined and finds her way around any obstacle. She is super conscientious, and if she says that she is going to do something, it always gets done. An amazing talent and so genuine. Her energy could light up the sky. Her personal story just adds to her determination.

— Brigid Heydt, Owner of Armed Accountants, Inc. formerly Heydt Business Solutions, Inc.

Thank you again for such a wonderful presentation. You are a true humanitarian. I’ve received such wonderful feedback about the event. I hope to work with you again!

— Ashley Ferraro, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Assistant Director of Global Learning

Many thanks to Alyssa for one of the best-organized and most stimulating retreats I have attended.

— The Roothbert Fund, Inc., Newsletter, Issue 1, 2019

Thank you for all the time and effort you put into revamping my resume. Secondly, the resume change helped me tremendously, I picked up a new role as a social worker! Because of this resume change, I was able to go up about 20k more. The change was very much necessary, hope to work with you again as I continue on this career journey of mine. You were the necessary change I needed for this pivotal point in my career. I will most definitely keep you posted on my journey and will let folks know about your services.

— Olukemi S., Resume Client

Thank you very much it looks amazing. The details you asked for that highlight my strengths is much appreciated, and above and beyond. Thanks for being patient with me and remaining professional throughout this process. It was definitely something I dreaded doing on my own out of being comfortable most of the time at my current job, ongoing nervousness, and fear of rejection due to me choosing not to further my education. The resume you prepared for me makes me feel more confident to apply for positions that although may state they require further education, may take another look at me due to my overall experience. I know it wasn’t easy. I’m grateful for your time and effort.

— DeNeidra, Resume Client

This is perfect, thank you so much!  I enjoyed working with you and you helped design a resume that I am truly proud of. Thank you again.

— Donna B., Resume Client

Thank you immensely for your time, care, and expertise! I really appreciate you. I'm elated to finally have a resume that highlights my work and experiences. It has been a pleasure working with you! This is really the first time I've ever considered my work on paper in a succinct way. I will definitely seek your services in the future!

— Rayn P., Resume Client

Thank you so very very much - seeing how you transformed my resume is incredible. It is also an answered prayer personally - sometimes I wondered what have I accomplished throughout the years? - and seeing it broken down in the way you did, was a boost for me because I was able to clearly see my accomplishments.

— Deborah C., Resume Client

Thank you for the super thorough refresh of my resume. I’m blown away!

— Fatimat, Resume Client

Thank you so much, Alyssa! My resume looks so much better! I love how you explain my work history and responsibilities. I would hire me!

— Michelle, Resume Client