We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nury Crawford. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Nury, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I am unequivocally walking my own path on my own terms. I’m spreading my wings in ways I’m not sure I would have ever thought before. It’s new so at times a tad scary but I’m worth the risk.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Nury Castillo Crawford, and I am the founder and Executive Director of THE little BOOK SPOT, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing literacy access and representation in communities that are often overlooked. As an immigrant, educator, and bilingual author, I’ve spent over twenty years advocating for equity in education, and I believe that literacy is not just about reading—it’s about empowerment, identity, and opportunity.
Through THE little BOOK SPOT and my publishing company, 1010 Publishing, I focus on amplifying diverse voices and providing bilingual books that reflect the rich cultural diversity of our communities. What makes our work unique is our commitment to authenticity—we collaborate with authors who write from lived experience, and we bring books into schools, family events, and festivals where stories become a bridge between cultures and generations.
Right now, I’m working on expanding literacy programming, author visits, and community events like our upcoming El Gusanito Book Festival, which celebrates books, family, culture, and community joy. At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: every child deserves to see themselves in a story—and every family deserves access to books that affirm who they are.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
One of my earliest memories of feeling powerful goes back to my childhood as a first-generation immigrant and the oldest daughter in my family. I learned English before my parents did, and very quickly, I became their voice in spaces where language created barriers. I remember translating at school meetings, doctor appointments, and even simple day-to-day interactions. But it wasn’t just about translating words—it was about protecting their dignity.
Standing up for my parents, making sure they were understood and respected, gave me an early sense of purpose. I realized that language is power, and being able to speak up not just for myself but for my family made me feel strong and responsible in a way that shaped who I am today. That experience instilled in me the belief that advocacy matters, and it’s a belief that continues to drive my work in literacy, representation, and community empowerment.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: You are already the most perfect version of yourself, even with your imperfections. You don’t need to compete with anyone else—no one else has your exact journey, your story, or your gifts. Life is your own race, and you get to run it at your own pace.
It’s a reminder that self-acceptance and honoring your unique path are far more powerful than comparison, and that embracing who you are has always been enough.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what really matters to me is equity and education—ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities and resources to thrive. They would also say that I deeply believe in self-love as the foundation for loving others. For me, loving yourself isn’t just an individual practice; it’s about honoring your roots, your community, and where you come from. When you value yourself and your story, you’re better equipped to uplift others and create positive change in the world around you.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
What I understand deeply, and that many people don’t fully realize, is that education is the most powerful variable for creating opportunity and success—and no one can ever take it from you. And by education, I don’t mean just formal schooling; I mean a lifelong commitment to learning, curiosity, and growth. Cultivating a growth mindset—being willing to learn from every experience and challenge—can open doors and shape your path in ways that nothing else can.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.1010Publishing.com
- Instagram: @nurycastillocrawford
- Linkedin: @nurycastillocrawford
- Facebook: @nurycastillocrawford
Image Credits
Nury Crawford
