New Children’s Book Franky(sito)’s World

Widens the Lens on Neurodivergence and Latino Stories

Frank Prek Graduation

For Angelina, this Mother’s Day isn’t about flowers or gifts. The real celebration is watching her son Frank prepare to walk across the graduation stage—something doctors once said might never happen—and marking the moment with the release of her debut children’s book, “Franky(sito)’s World.”

Through her book, which will be available widely in June, the longtime communications and political strategist and proud autism advocate delivers a story about honoring difference, resilience and the power of being seen. 

Told through the eyes of a 7-year-old boy growing up in a multigenerational Latino household, “Franky(sito)’s World” invites young readers to experience autism through warmth, culture, and everyday family life. It offers a rare glimpse of neurodivergence through the heart of a brown boy—a perspective still too often missing from children’s literature.

Fifteen years ago, doctors warned Angelina that her son might never mentally develop beyond the age of 13. Refusing to let a diagnosis define his future, she built a world where he could grow, thrive, and be fully himself. In a few weeks, as Frank graduates high school, Angelina will gift him the very first copy of “Franky(sito)’s World”—a love letter to her son and to every child who deserves to be seen.

“So often, our community’s stories are either invisible or told through a narrow lens,” said Angelina. “I wrote ‘Franky(sito)’s World’ to widen that space. I want the next generation, especially our brown and marginalized boys and girls, to know they are seen, loved, and powerful exactly as they are.”

More than a celebration of family and culture, “Franky(sito)’s World” is a call to spark early awareness and foster empathy. By introducing young readers to autism in an accessible, joyful way, Angelina hopes to encourage early conversations about neurodiversity, the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, and help typical children better understand and embrace their neurodivergent peers. In doing so, the book doesn’t just ask readers to recognize difference—it asks them to honor it.

Timed for graduation season, “Franky(sito)’s World” is also a tribute to the parents, educators, therapists, and specialists who fight every day to ensure neurodivergent children are supported and believed in.

Angelina’s own journey shapes every page. Born in Soyapango, El Salvador, she came to Los Angeles as a child, learning English while helping her mother clean houses and navigating spaces that didn’t always recognize her potential. Now, through her work in public service and her writing, she continues the mission she began as a young girl: making sure those too often overlooked are seen and celebrated.

“This story is my son’s,” said Angelina, “but it’s also for every child who’s ever needed the world to slow down, to look closer, and to recognize the beauty in their differences.”

For the past decade, Angelina has dedicated her career to public service, championing policies that uplift vulnerable communities–advancing livable wages, stronger worker protections, expanded healthcare access, and initiatives that support working families. 

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About the Book: “Franky(sito)’s World” will be available in June 2025 in both English and Spanish editions. Stay connected with Angelina and get the latest updates on “Franky(sito)’s World” @angelinadumarot and @frankysitos_world on Instagram.