Meet the Creators of Meet The Tayberries
Enjoy the full biographies behind Meet the Tayberries.
David D. Ruiz
[Role — Author / Co-Author]
David D. Ruiz was born in Lares, Puerto Rico, and raised in Newark, New Jersey. A lifelong artist, storyteller, and creator, David co-wrote The Tayberries with his daughter, Aiyana Heart Ruiz, bringing his vision for a playful, inclusive world to life. While his younger daughter, Jada, brought the story to life with her vibrant illustrations.
Inspired by watching his own mixed children navigate the challenges and joys of growing up, David created The Tayberries as a celebration of family, identity, and the courage to embrace what makes each of us unique. Helping his daughters achieve their first published works in storytelling and illustration is a dream come true.
Aiyana Heart Ruiz
[Role — Author / Co-Author]
Aiyana Heart Ruiz was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, and now resides in Queens, New York. After earning her degree in Dramatic Writing from New York University in 2019, she gravitated toward children’s literature — a space where she could blend her love of storytelling with her desire to make a positive impact on young readers.
Her debut book, Meet the Tayberries, follows Taylor, the outspoken oldest sibling in a family of mixed fruits, as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of life in Produce Hill. Much like Taylor, Aiyana is the oldest of mixed siblings and channels her own experiences, passions, and personality into her characters. Through her work, she hopes to inspire children everywhere to embrace their differences, celebrate their families, and find courage in being themselves.
Jada Rae Ruiz
[Role — Illustrator / Designer]
Jada Rae Ruiz was born in Belleville, New Jersey, and grew up between New Jersey and Maryland. From a very young age, she showed a passion for art in all forms, eventually focusing on digital illustration and animation. After graduating from Arts High School in Newark, NJ, Jada went on to earn her degree from MICA in Baltimore in 2024.
Her art is playful, colorful, and impossible to overlook, drawing inspiration from her life, other artists, and creative influencers. In Meet the Tayberries, Jada’s illustrations give life and personality to the fruit-filled world of Produce Hill. With every project, she hopes to spark joy and imagination, inspiring thousands — if not millions — of readers along the way.
Get Your Copy
Meet the Tayberries is a joyful story about family, friendship, and celebrating who we are.
Bring this colorful picture book home today — available now at Barnes & Noble online!