Cuban American poet and novelist Margarita Engle addresses readers
in what at first seems a cautionary introductory note: “This is not a book
about the most famous Hispanics.” But what follows is a gloriously rich
compendium of biographical poems about remarkable Hispanic Americans from many
walks of life, some of whom were born in the United States and others who came
as immigrants, refugees or exiles. Each is celebrated in free verse, chronologically
by birth date, and artist Rafael López superbly depicts each in bold and
colorful portraits. Carefully chosen words quietly convey the subjects' hopes and accomplishments,
providing wonderful insight into the multifaceted legacy of their lives — sports,
music, activism, science; Cuba, Mexico, Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Venezuela… Included
are Juan de Miralles, Félix Varela, Juana Briones, Paulina Pedroso, José Martí,
Ynés Mexía, Louis Agassiz Fuertes, Aída de Acosta, Fabiola Cabeza de Baca,
Arnold Rojas, Pura Belpré, George Meléndez Wright, Baruj Benacerraf, Tito
Puente, César Chávez, Roberto Clemente, and Tomás Rivera. Fuller biographical
notes end the book, and “more and more amazing Latinos” are mentioned, inviting
further exploration. Bravo! Poems About
Amazing Hispanics is a true gift, ideal for ages 8-12 but enjoyable for anyone
who loves to learn about interesting individuals.
Margarita Engle writes about her first fourteen years in Enchanted Air: Two
Cultures, Two Wings. Her life, then and later, spanned two cultures
which often collided over the decades as Cuba and the United States navigated a
difficult relationship. Beautifully composed, Engle’s memoir invites readers to
travel with her as she strives to connect the threads: “May this little book of
childhood memories serve as one of José Martí’s white roses — a poetic plea for a
chance to treat neighbors like friends.” Age 11 up.
