-Editorial
Two young men from Calexico, Humbert Felix and Cuauhtémoc “Chucky” Cortez, are turning their lifelong friendship and deep hometown roots into creative inspiration with the release of their first children’s book, Joaquiner Stinker. Both born and raised in Calexico, they are the sons of local community leaders and now, in their early 30s, they are carving out their own legacy—this time, in the world of literature.
Felix and Cortez met as toddlers, their parents having gone to high school together. Growing up just four houses apart, the pair attended the same schools and remained inseparable through childhood and into adulthood, bonded not only by neighborhood proximity but also a shared love of storytelling, comics, and creativity.
Their journey to publishing began during the pandemic. Cortez was inspired by his young nephew, who, isolated during COVID, pretended to be a skunk who struggled to make friends. The idea touched Cortez deeply, and with encouragement from his sister, he began to develop a story about a misunderstood skunk with curly hair who represents the challenges many children face when trying to fit in. Though Cortez had taken some writing and screenwriting courses, this would be his first attempt at publishing a book.
Meanwhile, Felix, a welder by trade, had rediscovered his passion for drawing during the pandemic when work slowed. Friends began requesting art, and he invested in an iPad to pursue digital illustration more seriously. So when Cortez approached him with the idea for the book and some rough sketches, Felix agreed to bring the characters to life, despite the challenge of shifting from his usual artistic style, which leaned more toward comic books and skull-themed artwork.
What followed was a unique, remote collaboration: Cortez was in Oakland at the time, and the two worked on the book by sharing sketches and ideas over the phone, often while playing Xbox together online.
“I never expected him to write a book,” Felix admitted. “But once he showed me the draft, I could already tell where his influences were coming from, anime, comics, our childhood. I knew exactly what he was going for.”
The book was accepted by a publishing company without any major changes. The illustrations, fonts, and storytelling remained exactly as the duo envisioned. Although technically not self-published, the full rights and royalties remain with Cortez and Felix.
While the book is written for children, both creators say it resonates with readers of all ages.
“There’s humor in it for everyone, kids, teens, even adults,” Felix explained. “It’s like those ‘90s cartoons that worked on multiple levels. You laugh as a kid, but there’s a deeper meaning when you’re older.”
Cortez added, “It’s about fitting in, being different, and learning to accept yourself and others. That message connects with anyone.”
Now promoting the book through social media and word-of-mouth, the pair hope to reach families throughout the Imperial Valley and beyond. They’re already getting positive feedback from parents who say the book has become a bedtime favorite.
Joaquiner Stinker follows the story of a skunk who longs for friendship but struggles to connect with other animals because of his strong smell. Refusing to give up, he sets off on a thoughtful and determined journey to overcome the challenges of his nature. Through clever ideas and a hopeful spirit, Joaquiner discovers the true meaning of acceptance and friendship. Filled with humor and heart, this charming tale offers young readers a valuable lesson in resilience and belonging.
To contact the authors or purchase the book, readers can find Cortez on Instagram at chucky_cortez2.0 or via email chucky-2334@live.com.
