Juko's First Day Of School Raising Awareness For Down Syndrome

The first book of the "Juko" series, "Juko's First Day of School" highlights a full day in the life of a Juko, a young boy with Down Syndrome, as he experiences his first day at school. From the time Juko wakes up until his parents pick him up, join Juko as he experiences many firsts as a first-time student with Down Syndrome. Written by Elisa Noriega and Illustrated by Adrian Reevers.

Elisa Noriega is a philanthropist, successful Real Estate entrepreneur, and a Down Syndrome advocate. She is the founder of the non-profit organization, Sparkle of Life, which helps parents expecting newborns with Down Syndrome.

Elisa has a Bachelors of Arts in Spanish Literature, a Masters in Business Administration, and a Masters in Public Administration from Texas Southern University. She also speaks five languages.

Elisa wanted to write a series of books centering around her brother, Juko, who was born with Down Syndrome. Juko was the joy of the Noriega family's life, and Elisa's goal for her book series is to provide recognition and inclusion for children from all walks of life.



Adrian Reevers is an artist and illustrator from Southern California, and father to two adult autistic sons. After studying at the Visual Arts and Design Academy in Pasadena, Ca, he was self-taught in digital and graphic design, forming a graphic design business in 2008.

Adrian Reevers was drawn to the Juko book series as a project by its overarching goal of bringing together children with different needs and fostering companionship and understanding between them. As this challenge was something his own family faced, it struck a personal chord, and Elisa and her mission have gained his full support.