Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Diego teacher, blogger, author and mentor. We chatted about Writing With Students in Mind. Diego and I are both Spanish teacher who have published over 10 Comprehensible Input books for students. You can find more information about our passion projects and how we help students acquire language below!
A.C. Quintero Comprehensible Input Collection
Diego Ojeda Comprehensible Poetry Collection
If you’d like to watch the full interview, you can click the video below. In support of the video, I’ve summarized the more salient points as it relates to using a wide range of novels in the classroom, or writing for your own students and beyond. The questions and my responses are below.
Enjoy, and let me know your thoughts!
I have to give a shoutout to Diego as the questions were so well-crafted and on point. He had me choose from a few, and through me some curveballs. In essence, he kept me on my toes!
Representation & Cultural Relevance
Diego: Why Representation Matters in Stories?
A.C. Quintero: Diversity in storytelling isn’t just an intentional choice—it’s a reflection of reality. My world is naturally diverse; my friends, family, and community are filled with people from different backgrounds, so my stories incorporate and reflect those realities. Also, let’s keep in mind that students appreciate seeing themselves in stories, and diverse representation fosters a richer learning experience. They also appreciate learning about people different from them- isn’t that part of the reason why we travel? To learn about other cultures and ways of life. When I write-in a particular character, it isn’t a stretch. That character was part of my community or inner circle; maybe even inspired by one of my ethnically diverse students. In the same way that biodiversity contributes to a thriving ecosystem- it does so literary as well.
Diego: What Advice Would You Give Educators for Bringing More Diverse Voices into the Classroom?
A.C. Quintero: Start by being open and intentional about finding suitable resources- even if you have to start with one! When you come across diverse materials, save them! Attend at least one session on a different perspective at conferences so you build a foundation. Consider publications like Voces Diversas, a project I co-founded with Kia London, which helps educators integrate a broad spectrum of voices into their curriculum. You can learn more about our resources here: Voces Diversas
Book Highlights & Impact
Diego: What Makes La clase de confesiones So Relatable?
A.C. Quintero: La clase de confesiones, a novel typically used in level 1 Spanish, is popular with students and teacher. Students connected with this book from the very first draft. I remember them huddling in groups, laughing and discussing the main character—it was a clear sign that the story resonated. They laughed at the decisions the student made, and of course, the nosy teacher to makes this poor boy’s crush go from bad to worse! Also, contributing to it’s success is the fact that it takes place in the classroom. The school setting and the universal experience of having a crush make it engaging. However, the real magic might come from the fact that the matchmaker-teacher is inspired by one of my own, sets things into motion. All the little characters have their funny stories too, so there is less of a chance of students getting bored! And it’s pretty easy to read!
Diego: Crafting a Stories such as Las sombras, La revelación, and El portal took you years to write. Is that the normal length for writing a book?
A.C. Quintero: Writing these novels took three years, not only because I juggle teaching, presenting, and creating resources, but because they were entirely original. Unlike other books I’ve written, which often stem from shorter stories, these were built from the ground up. And that pulls from another side of my brain!
When a story feels uninspired, I don’t force it. Instead, I rework elements or step away to “live a little.” For instance, a sculpture in a park sparked the idea of alien forces in Las sombras. Inspiration comes from unexpected places—writers just have to stay open to it. A visit to Puerto Rico made me rethink the scenery for La revelación (it takes place in St. Augustine, which has a similar fort). As for El portal, the editor did not understand one part of the book. She thought it was minor, but it was to me the whole crux of the story. I ended up rewriting the whole book. I am glad I did because I got to work with a journalist from Venezuela who provided me with great insight on certain chapters.
Diego: Teachers have told you that the Book “El Escape” Feels Like a movie. If you could make into a movie, who would you cast?
A.C. Quintero: If I were casting, I’d choose Robert DeNiro as Mr. Chris, the trio from Vampire in Brooklyn as the students, and the bad cop from Terminator for the antagonist.
Diego: What projects do you have on the horizon? Future Projects & Writing Advice
A.C. Quintero: I have several novels in the works. Some will be independently published, and others in collaboration with Voces Digital. I’m currently working on three books:
Tres Citas para el Prom
(publisher: Voces Digital)
This story is based on true events—with a little embellishment. I’ve shared it with my students many times, and it never fails to get a few laughs. So, I decided to enhance a few details, revisit some memorable characters from my high school days, and bring it to life. My good friend Elvira and I definitely had our share of adventures!
La vecina chismosa
publisher: Novels and Resources by A.C. Quintero
We’ve all had nosy neighbors, but none quite like Heidi. As the self-appointed neighborhood “watch,” she keeps a close eye on Ernesto-literally, all day. At 80 years old, she refuses to let age slow her down, especially when it comes to her favorite pastime: spying on her downstairs neighbor.
Heidi has a knack for inserting herself into Ernesto’s life, but he has no idea just how involved she truly is-until she breaks into his house during his date. That’s when things go from awkward to absolutely outrageous, fast!
Diego: What’s your advice for Teachers Who Want to Write Their Own Books
A.C. Quintero: If you’re a language teacher looking to create comprehensible readers, start by establishing a routine. Writing requires consistency, and finding a system that works for you is key. When crafting stories, focus on what engages students—relatable characters, authentic emotions, and universal themes.
Above all, write stories that excite you! If a book doesn’t convince you, it won’t convince your readers. Step away when needed, observe the world around you, and let inspiration come naturally.
Thank you for tuning in! Check out more of our novels, and resources for the WL classroom below!
Comprehensible Novels for the Classroom
“Kick back and let acquisition do its work!”
Discover the perfect novel for any classroom with our extensive library, tailored for every level and interest. Each book comes with proven teaching materials designed to captivate students through engaging storylines, language use, authentic expressions, and essential grammar structures. Empower your teaching and keep your focus where it matters most: on your students’ learning!
I am currently a Spanish Teacher in Chicago, IL. I have 20 years of cumulative experience as an International Baccalaureate middle school teacher, high school teacher, and adjunct instructor. I hold a Master’s in Latin American
Literature and Cultures coupled with a Master’s in Educational Leadership. These dual degrees have afforded me a vantage point from both ends of the educational spectrum: instruction and evaluation. I have been sharing my unique perspective on pedagogy and language acquisition for over ten years at national, regional and state conferences. I am also an accomplished author! I have authored several compelling comprehensible novels that allow students to solidify their language skills while experiencing a wide range of different cultures. Check out my resources below. Thanks for stopping by!
I highly recommend checking out this book—your students will relish the stories!
Discover the perfect novel for any classroom with our extensive library, tailored for every level and interest. Each book comes with proven teaching materials designed to captivate students through engaging storylines, language use, authentic expressions, and essential grammar structures. Empower your teaching and keep your focus where it matters most: on your students’ learning!
Novels and Resources by A.C. Quintero
A.C. Quintero Literary Partners!
Brycehedsrom.com
Command Performance Language Institute
Wayside Publishing
Teacher’s Discovery
The CI Bookshop (Europe)
Teaching Spanish Made Easy (TPT) Catalog
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