There’s a new children’s book on the horizon, and it’s already generating excitement! Cristi Hernz is in the process of creating Selva the Flamingo: DJ of the City, a vibrant and uplifting story about a flamingo with big dreams and even bigger beats. Though still in the early stages, this book promises to be a thrilling journey of music, self-discovery, and the power of embracing your uniqueness.
Let’s dive into Cristi’s creative process and explore the story of Selva, a flamingo who dares to stand out in the bustling city of Miami.
The Beginning of Selva’s Journey: Dreaming Big
Every story has a beginning, and for Cristi Hernz, the spark that inspired Selva the Flamingo came from the idea of blending music and adventure. In this tale, Selva isn’t your typical flamingo. While other flamingos are content with their daily routines, Selva dreams of something bigger—something louder. She has a deep love for music and a passion for becoming a DJ, but she’s unsure of herself. After all, no one in the city seems to understand her dream.
In Chapter 1: Introduction to Selva, we meet a flamingo who doesn’t quite fit in. While other animals in Miami seem comfortable in their roles, Selva feels out of place. This chapter introduces her personality, her dream of being a DJ, and her internal struggle with self-confidence. Cristi shares that this part of the story reflects many of the feelings kids face when they don’t feel like they belong. “I wanted Selva to represent the challenge of finding your own voice, even when it feels like you’re different from everyone else,” Cristi explains.
Finding Her Rhythm: Selva’s First Performance
As Cristi continues writing, Selva’s story takes shape with moments that resonate with anyone who’s ever felt nervous about sharing their talents. In Chapter 2: Selva’s First Performance, Selva takes a huge step forward by setting up her DJ booth in a local park. It’s a nerve-wracking experience—what if no one likes her music? At first, the animals seem unsure, but as Selva plays her beats, they start to tap their feet. Slowly but surely, the crowd warms up to her tunes, and for the first time, Selva gets a glimpse of what her music can do.
Cristi shares, “This is such a pivotal moment for Selva. It’s the beginning of her overcoming her fears and realizing that even small signs of encouragement can make a world of difference.”
Bringing Everyone Together: The Zoo Party
Confidence begins to build for Selva in Chapter 3: The Zoo Party, where she takes her DJ set to a larger stage—the city zoo! This chapter showcases a key theme in the book: the power of music to bring everyone together, regardless of their differences. As animals from all corners of the zoo gather to enjoy the music, Selva’s confidence soars. She starts to believe in her dream, and for the first time, she feels like she’s found her place in the city.
“I wanted to capture the magic of music as something universal,” Cristi explains. “It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from—music can connect us all.”
Setbacks and Doubts: A Bump in the Road
Of course, no journey is without its obstacles. In Chapter 4: Doubts and Setbacks, Selva overhears some city pigeons criticizing her music. They call it “too strange” and suggest it’s not right for the city’s scene. Their harsh words shake Selva’s newfound confidence, and she starts doubting her place as a DJ. Should she give up her dream and try to blend in with the other flamingos?
This chapter taps into the reality that every creative journey faces criticism. “Selva’s struggle here is something we all experience,” Cristi says. “It’s that moment of doubt where you wonder if you’re good enough, or if you should give up. But that’s also when you learn the most about yourself.”
A Wise Mentor Appears: The Turning Point
Just when Selva feels lost, she meets a wise old owl in Chapter 5: Selva’s Mentor. The owl listens to her worries and reassures her that being different is a good thing. He shares stories of other famous animals who were once criticized but became successful by staying true to themselves. With the owl’s guidance, Selva begins to see that her uniqueness is her greatest strength.
“I love this chapter because it’s all about mentorship and growth,” Cristi shares. “Everyone needs someone who can remind them that their differences make them special.”
The Big Moment: The City Festival
In Chapter 6: The Big City Festival, Selva faces her biggest challenge yet—playing at the city’s biggest event of the year. All eyes are on her as she prepares to spin her best set, and the nerves are back in full force. But as her music fills the square, animals from all over the city come together to dance. This is the moment Selva’s been waiting for: her dream of uniting everyone through music becomes a reality.
“Selva’s journey is all about building to this moment,” Cristi says. “It’s when she truly realizes her potential and sees the impact her music can have.”
A Happy Ending: Embracing Her True Self
The story wraps up in Chapter 7: Conclusion – Embracing Her Identity, where Selva reflects on her journey and understands how far she’s come. She’s no longer concerned with fitting in—her music is her way of expressing herself, and she’s proud of who she’s become.
Cristi couldn’t be more excited about this chapter. “It’s such a powerful message for kids. Selva’s journey isn’t just about becoming a DJ; it’s about accepting who she is and using her passion to connect with the world.”
What’s Next for Selva?
While the book is still in development, Cristi Hernz is hard at work crafting Selva’s world. Each chapter is filled with moments of self-discovery, fun, and of course, music! As Selva’s story comes together, Cristi is already looking forward to sharing this exciting adventure with readers.
“I can’t wait for kids to meet Selva,” Cristi says. “Her journey is full of ups and downs, but I think it will inspire kids to follow their passions, no matter how different they might feel.”
Stay tuned for more updates as Cristi Hernz continues to develop Selva the Flamingo: DJ of the City! This is one story you won’t want to miss—a musical adventure about finding your rhythm, chasing your dreams, and embracing who you are.
Follow Cristi Hernz on social media to stay updated on Selva’s journey and to be the first to know when the book will be released!
Instagram: @cristihernzmusic
https://www.instagram.com/cristihernzmusic/