Award-winning Ventura County children’s author Irma L. Hersel has released her newest children’s title “Where Chocolate Grows: Pretend Chocolate Shop Activity Book.”

The bilingual English-Spanish activity book encourages children to learn through imaginative play while discovering the fascinating journey of chocolate.



Designed for children, families, classrooms, libraries, and homeschool programs, the activity book transforms young readers into chocolate shop owners through hands-on activities including play money, menus, order forms, signs, coloring pages, games, and creative business-building exercises.

The book also introduces children to English and Spanish vocabulary while promoting creativity, communication, and screen-free learning.



The new activity book expands on Hersel’s award-winning “Where Chocolate Grows” series, which teaches children where everyday foods come from and encourages curiosity about the world around them.



“As a children’s author, I love creating books that inspire curiosity, creativity, and meaningful family experiences,” said Hersel. “Pretend play allows children to build confidence, solve problems, and use their imaginations while learning something new.”


Hersel’s work has received national honors, including First Place in the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards in the Cultural Diversity category, and recognition from the Arizona Authors Association.



A longtime Ventura County resident, Hersel enjoys visiting schools and libraries to share bilingual stories that celebrate culture, language, and lifelong learning.

Her books have been added to public library collections throughout Southern California and are being shared with local classrooms as part of her ongoing literacy outreach efforts.


To learn more about Hersel, her books, classroom resources, and upcoming events, visit www.irmawrites.com.

“Where Chocolate Grows: Pretend Chocolate Shop Activity Book” is available through Amazon.