When I prepared to release my second novel featuring Latina protagonist Victoria Barrón, I expected the usual publishing challenges: marketing, discoverability, visibility. What I did not expect was discovering that Amazon KDP does not have a dedicated category for Latine/LatinX, fiction.

That absence matters.

Amazon KDP currently offers categories recognizing Black literature and LGBTQ+ literature, acknowledging the importance of representation and discoverability in publishing. Yet Latino and Latina readers, writers, and stories remain largely invisible within the platform’s classification system despite the fact that the Latino population is the second largest demographic group in the United States.

Our stories are not niche. Our voices are not an afterthought.

Categories help readers find books, help authors reach audiences, and help communities see themselves reflected in literature. Without a dedicated category, Latine authors are forced into broader classifications that dilute visibility and make discoverability harder for both writers and readers.

I have contacted KDP twice requesting the addition of a Latine/LatinX/Latina literature category. So far, I’ve received no meaningful response. But then again, worthwhile things are rarely easy, which goes doubly if like me, you’re an indie author.

Whether you’re an author, reader, or advocate for diverse literature, I hope you’ll join the conversation and help push for change. #LatineAuthors #LatinxAuthors #LatinaAuthors #OwnVoices #KDP #PublishingMatters  #BooksByLatinxAuthors