About
Anna Orenstein-Cardona is a Puerto Rican multi-genre author and Certified Financial Educator (CFEI). An MIT graduate and former Wall Street executive, she combines storytelling, neuroscience, and financial education to empower readers of all ages.
Her debut picture book, The Tree of Hope (Beaming Books, 2022), received a starred review from School Library Journal, won the Bronze Medal for Most Inspirational Children’s Picture Book from the International Latino Book Awards, and was named a Best Children’s Book of 2023 by Bank Street College.
Through her company, Wear Your Money Crown®, Anna partners with schools, organizations, and individuals across the U.S. and U.K. to promote holistic financial wellness. She’s been a featured speaker at SXSW and once advised Colin Firth on a trading scene for a BBC film.
Anna splits her time between London, New York, and Puerto Rico, bringing a passionate heart and global perspective to everything she does.
Featured Work
The Tree of Hope
This lushly illustrated and evocatively written picture book tells the story of the majestic jagüey blanco, one of the most beloved trees in the city of Old San Juan. Puerto Rican author Anna Orenstein-Cardona weaves an epic tale based on the true story of this bearded watchdog of the island, how the tree was impacted by Hurricane Maria, and how a group of people rallied together to save it. With gorgeous illustrations by Juan Manuel Moreno, this picture book serves as an account of the devastating impact of Hurricane Maria and the strength of the people who continue to rebuild to this day.
Other Works
Awards and Recognition
- Bronze Medal for Most Inspirational Children’s Picture Book from the International Latino Book Awards, 2024
- SLJ Starred Review
- Best Children's Book of 2023 by Bank Street College
- Featured in The Week Junior (USA), April 2024, as one of "4 books that feature spectacular trees."
