Kiki’s Journey

Kristy Orona-Ramirez (Taos Pueblo/Tarahumara) grew up in California’s San Gabriel Valley. From an early age, she showed a penchant for the creative arts, and has been writing short stories and poetry since she was seven years old. Kiki’s Journey was inspired by Kristy’s own first trip to Taos Pueblo. Kristy focused on Native American studies at Humboldt State University, where she completed the Indian Teacher Personnel Program (ITEPP). A fourth grade teacher, Kristy also has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration. Kristy is also lead singer for the Native American Northern drumming group, The Mankillers. She currently resides in Riverside, California with her husband and four children.

Jonathan Warm Day (Taos Pueblo) is a well-known artist and writer who grew up on the Taos Pueblo Indian Reservation. Jonathan began woodcarving as a child, and was introduced to painting by his mother, Eva Mirabal, who was also an artist. He studied art at the University of New Mexico. His paintings have been exhibited in various galleries, and are included in several important collections. When writing, he draws inspiration from his personal experiences and his family’s oral traditions. He lives in Taos with his two daughters.