Neftali finds beauty and wonder everywhere: in the oily colors of mud puddles; a lost glove, sailing on the wind; the music of birds and language. He loves to collect treasures, daydream, and write--pastimes his authoritarian father thinks are for fools. Against all odds, Neftali prevails against his father's cruelty and his own crippling shyness to become one of the most widely read poets in the world, Pablo Neruda. This moving story about the birth of an artist is also a celebration of childhood, imagination, & the strength of the creative spirit. Sure to inspire young writers & artists.

PRAISE FOR PAM MUNOZ RYAN:

"Told in a lyrical, fairy tale-like style....Ryan fluidly juxtaposes world events with one family's will to survive."--Publishers Weekly, starred review, ESPERANZA RISING

"Ryan writes a moving story in clear, poetic language that children will sink into, and the book offers excellent opportunities for discussion and curriculum support." --Booklist, ESPERANZA RISING

"Ebullient and tautly structured....With a pacing that moves along at a gallop, this is a skillful execution of a fascinating historical tale."--Publishers Weekly, starred review, RIDING FREEDOM

ADDITIONAL AWARDS AND HONORS FOR ESPERANZA RISING:

-Willa Cather Award

-Americas Award Honor Book

-Los Angeles Times Book Prize Finalist

-NYPL 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing

-Smithsonian Notable Book

-Children's Literature Choice List

-Notable Books for a Global Society

-Jefferson Cup Award - Worthy of note

-Judy Goddard AZ Young Adult Author of the Year Award

-Judy Lopez Memorial Award

AWARDS AND HONORS FOR RIDING FREEDOM:

-California Young Reader Medal winner (Intermediate Category)

-IRA Teacher's Choice

-Parenting Magazine "Reading Magic" Award winner

-Recognition of Merit for a First Novel Award - Southern California Council on Literature for Children and Young People