Rueben Martinez, Libreria Martinez Books and Art Gallery

Originally from Miami a small mining town in Arizona, Ruebén Martinez moved to California at the age of 17 1/2 to pursue the American dream. Now celebrating his 45th year as a professional barber and 29th year as a business owner, he is a savvy entrepreneur that understands the energy and power if small Latino businesses. Barber shops are known for being the genesis if sparking new ideas. In 1993, Mr. Martinez got an idea that grew from being a customer novelty into two full-blown businesses. Over a course of a decade, a handful of Latino books, available for a few close customers to read and buy, evolved into two thriving businesses. Today, Librería Martinez Books & Art Gallery and Libros Para Niños, a children's bookstore, are recognized nationwide for showcasing the country's premiere Latino authors and artists.

Mr. Martinez was a recipient of the prestigious MacArthur Foundation Fellowship and Genius Grant in 2004 for his leadership in promoting literacy in the Latino community and serving as an inspirational American role model.

Though having recieved numerous titles and awards over the years, Martinez holds his titles as "father, grandfather and great-grandfather" as most important of all.

A believer that one person can make a difference in people's lives, Martinez spends countless hours talking to customers at the bookstores, catching up with his hair business customers, motivating students at schools and colleges throughout the country, and engaging with citizens in political discourse.

In sum, Ruebén Martinez spends everyday informing, challenging, and inspiring children and adults to do great things. He did it, and knows they can too.

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• Santa Ana
• Rueben Martinez
• Downtown Orange County
• Akorn Entertainment
• Jeffrey Horn
• Ali Akbarzadeh
• Documentary
• Primer Santa Ana
• KOCE
• Orange County
• Artist Village
• Jared Schoenemann
• Childrens Books
• Latino Books

[mcmac517]

Love it! We have shown to our students during Hispanic Heritage month, but it is great anytime to encourage reading! He seems like such an amazing person, such a kind and caring spirit!

[MReynaArte]

one of my local heroes, Mr. Ruben Martinez

[pondage]

great job on this....!