How Author Nicholas Aragon and Photographer Stephanie Nieto Bring New Mexico to Life.
Curly Crow's Thanksgiving Adventure
Meet the Talented Duo Behind Curly Crow’s Family Feast: Author Nicholas Aragon and Photographer Stephanie Nieto
If you're a fan of the Curly Crow children’s book series or a lover of New Mexico's breathtaking beauty, you won’t want to miss the chance to meet Nicholas Aragon and Stephanie Nieto, two talented creatives deeply rooted in the rich culture of New Mexico. Their latest collaboration, Curly Crow’s Family Feast, combines engaging storytelling with stunning, authentic photography, making this book a true work of art for both children and adults alike. Enjoy 15% Off...Buy Now.
The Story Behind Their Meeting
It was at the 2023 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta that Nicholas Aragon and Stephanie Nieto first crossed paths. Nicholas, the visionary author behind the Curly Crow series, was volunteering at the New Mexico True tourism booth, sharing his love for New Mexico and introducing his work to locals and visitors from around the globe. Stephanie, a renowned photographer with an eye for capturing the state's vibrant landscapes and wildlife, was immediately captivated by the playful, educational concept of Curly Crow.
A simple question about Curly Crow was all it took to spark a friendship. As two artists with a passion for the land of enchantment, Nicholas and Stephanie quickly bonded over their love for New Mexico's unique beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage (photo by Stephanie Nieto).
The Power of Curly Crow to Inspire Young Readers
For Nicholas, the mission behind Curly Crow is clear: to foster a love of reading in children. His philosophy is simple but impactful—create an engaging character, put a book in a child’s hands, and the rest will follow. "Reading is exercise for the brain," Nicholas often says, and he's made it his goal to make reading accessible and exciting. His Curly Crow series serves as an adventure guide, encouraging kids to pick up a book and dive into stories that are both fun and educational.
Nicholas frequently attends events throughout New Mexico, where he does story time, author visits, and even customized presentations for older students, covering topics like his journey as an author, website building, and illustration techniques. He loves showing kids, from kindergarten to high school, that they too can create something meaningful.
Stephanie Nieto: A Photographer with an Eye for New Mexico’s Beauty
Stephanie’s photography journey is equally inspiring. Known for her ability to capture the essence of New Mexico’s landscapes and wildlife, her work has been featured in national publications and local businesses alike. Her stunning images of New Mexico’s community, landscapes, and wildlife—including her favorite subject, the iconic roadrunner—have become a testament to her talent and dedication.
Stephanie's artistry made her the perfect collaborator for Curly Crow’s Family Feast, a Thanksgiving-themed book about New Mexico birds. The book provides kids with fun, factual information about local bird species and includes a trivia page for extra engagement. In a special touch, Nicholas included one of Stephanie’s original roadrunner photos at the back of the book, bringing Curly Crow’s world to life with her stunning, authentic imagery.
Curly Crow’s Family Feast: A Unique Collaboration
Curly Crow’s Family Feast is a special project that blends storytelling, wildlife facts, and interactive elements, making it a perfect addition to any child's bookshelf. In this delightful tale, Curly Crow learns about the various birds of New Mexico and how they find food and thrive in their natural habitats. As a fun challenge, young readers are invited to count how many times the roadrunner appears in the book—a nod to Stephanie’s beloved wildlife photography.
This collaboration is a true gift to the community. Both Nicholas and Stephanie share a passion for inspiring others and making meaningful connections. Their work is not about fame or wealth; it’s about giving back to New Mexico and creating a sense of pride for local families.
More Adventures to Come
This isn’t the last you’ll see of Curly Crow. Nicholas is also developing a series about two lovable Boston Terriers, Rooger and Loki. The first book in the series, Rooger and Loki Learn Manners, is geared toward young dog lovers and Boston Terrier enthusiasts alike.
And as for Stephanie, her photography continues to capture the attention of people far beyond New Mexico. Together, Nicholas and Stephanie are showing the world what it means to be New Mexican artists, weaving the beauty, history, and warmth of their homeland into every piece they create (photo by Stephanie Nieto).
Don’t Miss Out on Holiday Offers!
- Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the young reader in your life? Curly Crow’s Family Feast is available now, take 15% Off at CurlyCrow.com.
- You can also enjoy a special offer when you buy three paperback books you get one free!
- Plus, check out Curly Crow Art unique designs inspired by New Mexico's beautiful landscapes...click here.
By purchasing Curly Crow’s Family Feast or other books in the series, you’re not just supporting local artists; you're giving children a chance to explore the world of reading and be inspired by the beauty of New Mexico.
