Author and Illustrator Nina Mata is the #1 New York Times Bestselling Illustrator of "I Promise" by LeBron James (nominated for the 52nd NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literature). She is also a 2021 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honoree for her work in "Ty's Travels, Zip Zoom by Kelly Starling Lyons".  Nina grew up a typical latchkey kid in Queens, New York. Her family emigrated from the Philippines when she was 6 years old. Because her parents worked and went to night school, Nina spent a lot (like a whole lot) of time drawing. Her after school activities usually involved watching Bob Ross, Reading Rainbow and looking for adventures in the library (which she still does). She now creates illustrations for childrens publishing and is passionate about representing the beauty and diversity of the world. She currently lives in New Jersey with her husband, their daughter and Tabi, the cat.

Without These Books is a thank-you-inspired Video/Podcast. Each episode celebrates authors, books, and characters that changed us as writers, readers, and as people. Listen on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you podcast. Watch on our YouTube channel or at pastforward.org.

Nina Mata selected Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale by John Steptoe for her episode of Without These Books.