New Award Book

The Poet Slave of Cuba: A Biography of Juan Francisco Manzano - Margarita Engle
Juan Francisco Manzano was born in 1797 into the household of wealthy slaveowners in Cuba. He spent his early years at the side of his owner's wife, entertaining her friends. His poetry was his outlet, reflecting the beauty and cruelty of his world. Written in verse. Américas Award for Children's and Young Adult Literature