María Retana was born in Cuba. She received her B.A. in Spanish and Comparative Literature from the University of California, Riverside. She has worked extensively with children of all ages in scholastic and cultural events, as well as in theater. Furthermore, she is the author of more than twenty published bilingual children's books. She is also a literary presenter for students, teachers, librarians, and parents. In December 2008, the International Reading Association and the Cochise Area Council awarded Mrs. Retana her first literary award. She lives with her husband, Guillermo, in Tucson, AZ.

Mrs. Retana has published picture books, chapter books, and graphic novels in the following genres: Science Fiction, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Mythic Fiction, Adventure, Mystery, Cuba, and Southwest Wildlife. The results include four bilingual series: Isabella & Chloe Bilingual Series, Miles & Lee Bilingual Series, Cuba Bilingual Series and the Southwest Wildlife Bilingual Series.