Margarita Engle is a Cuban-American author whose work often explores themes of identity, heritage, and the intersection of cultures. Her poetry and prose are characterized by a lyrical style and a profound understanding of the human experience. Engle delves into the complexities of living between two worlds, frequently drawing inspiration from her Cuban and American roots. Her writing resonates with readers through its emotional depth and poetic beauty.
Set against the backdrop of the 1914 Panama Canal opening, the narrative explores the monumental engineering feat that transformed global trade and marked America's rise as a superpower. It highlights the immense sacrifices made, as thousands lost their lives and many endured grueling labor in perilous conditions for meager wages. The story captures the struggle and determination involved in creating a modern marvel, emphasizing the human cost behind this historic achievement.
From Pura Belpré Award–winning author Margarita Engle comes a lively, rhythmic picture book about a little girl visiting her grandfather who is a pregonero —a singing street vendor in Cuba—and helping him sell his frutas .When we visit mi abuelo , I help him sellfrutas , singing the names of each fruitas we walk, our footsteps like drumbeats,our hands like maracas, shaking…The little girl loves visiting her grandfather in Cuba and singing his special songs to sell all kinds of mango , limón , naranja , piña , and more! Even when they’re apart, grandfather and granddaughter can share rhymes between their countries like un abrazo —a hug—made of words carried on letters that soar across the distance like songbirds.
In this poetic memoir, Margarita Engle, the first Latina woman to receive a Newbery Honor, tells of growing up as a child of two cultures during the Cold War. Margarita is a girl from two worlds. Her heart lies in Cuba, her mother's tropical island country, a place so lush with vibrant life that it seems like a fairy tale kingdom. But most of the time she lives in Los Angeles, lonely in the noisy city and dreaming of the summers when she can take a plane through the enchanted air to her beloved island. Words and images are her constant companions, friendly and comforting when the children at school are not. Then a revolution breaks out in Cuba. Margarita fears for her far-away family. When the hostility between Cuba and the United States erupts at the Bay of Pigs Invasion, Margarita's worlds collide in the worst way possible. How can the two countries she loves hate each other so much? And will she ever get to visit her beautiful island again?
A novel in verse about the friendship between a young girl and the poet Gabriela Mistral that leads to healing and hope for both of them.Cuban-born eleven-year-old Oriol lives in Santa Barbara, California, where she struggles to belong. But most of the time that's okay, because she enjoys helping her parents care for the many injured animals at their veterinary clinic.Then Gabriela Mistral, the first Latin American winner of a Nobel Prize in Literature, moves to town, and aspiring writer Oriol finds herself opening up. As she begins to create a world of words for herself, Oriol learns it will take courage to stay true to herself and do what she thinks is right--attempting to rescue a baby elephant in need--even if it means keeping secrets from those she loves.
The narrative explores the struggles of a girl grappling with societal expectations that stifle her thoughts and individuality. Through poignant reflections, she confronts the pressures to conform and the desire for self-expression. The book delves into themes of identity, empowerment, and the quest for personal freedom, inviting readers to consider the importance of voicing one's inner thoughts amidst external constraints.
The narrative unfolds through the eyes of a Cuban-American boy experiencing his family's village in Cuba for the first time. As he navigates this new environment, he discovers a sister he never knew existed, leading to themes of identity, family, and cultural connection. Engle's use of verse adds a lyrical quality, enhancing the emotional depth of the boy's journey and his exploration of heritage. This middle grade novel captures the essence of discovery and the bonds that tie family together across borders.
A School Library Journal Best Nonfiction Book of 2019! In this powerful companion to her award-winning memoir Enchanted Air, Young People’s Poet Laureate Margarita Engle recounts her teenage years during the turbulent 1960s. Margarita Engle’s childhood straddled two worlds: the lush, welcoming island of Cuba and the lonely, dream-soaked reality of Los Angeles. But the revolution has transformed Cuba into a mystery of impossibility, no longer reachable in real life. Margarita longs to travel the world, yet before she can become independent, she’ll have to start high school. Then the shock waves of war reach America, rippling Margarita’s plans in their wake. Cast into uncertainty, she must grapple with the philosophies of peace, civil rights, freedom of expression, and environmental protection. Despite overwhelming circumstances, she finds solace and empowerment through her education. Amid the challenges of adolescence and a world steeped in conflict, Margarita finds hope beyond the struggle, and love in the most unexpected of places.
This Spanish edition offers readers a unique opportunity to engage with the text in their native language, enhancing accessibility and understanding. The translation maintains the essence of the original work while capturing cultural nuances. Ideal for Spanish-speaking audiences, it provides an enriched reading experience that emphasizes the themes and characters in a way that resonates with local readers. This edition is perfect for those looking to enjoy the narrative flow and stylistic elements in Spanish.
The book has received a starred review from Booklist, indicating a standout quality that sets it apart from others. It promises to deliver an engaging narrative or insightful themes that resonate with readers. The acclaim suggests a well-crafted story or profound character development, making it a noteworthy addition to any reader's collection.
When a hurricane exposes Soleida's family's secret sculpture garden, the Cuban government arrests her artist parents, forcing her to escape alone to Central America where she meets Dariel, a Cuban American boy, and together they work to protect the environment and bring attention to the imprisoned artists in Cuba.