The 2008 narrative winner is Margarita Engle for her book, The Poet Slave of Cuba: A Biography of Juan Francisco Manzano . The book is illustrated by Sean Qualls. Manzano was born in Cuba in 1797. As the property of a wealthy slave owner, he was denied an education. Inspite of his humble beginnings, he had a remarkable talent for poetry. Manzano's verses portray the hope, despair and pain that he suffered as a slave surrounded by the natural beauty of his island home.
Los Gatos Black on Halloween, written by Marissa Montes and illustrated by Yuyi Morales, is the 2008 winner for outstanding illustrations. Children will enjoy this book, which combines Halloween pictures with a spooky story introduces several Spanish words.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15) by borrowing a book that earned the Pura Belpre Award. The Youth Services staff can help you find books and music that highlight our Latino heritage. Ask us about our books in Spanish for children!
posted by jtb
