Description

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"I find it so easy to forget / that I'm just a girl who is expected / to live / without thoughts."

Opposing slavery in Cuba in the nineteenth century was dangerous. The most daring abolitionists were poets who veiled their work in metaphor. Of these, the boldest was Gertrudis G mez de Avellaneda, nicknamed Tula. In passionate, accessible verses of her own, Engle evokes the voice of this book-loving feminist and abolitionist who bravely resisted an arranged marriage at the age of fourteen, and was ultimately courageous enough to fight against injustice. Historical notes, excerpts, and source notes round out this exceptional tribute.

About the Author

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Margarita Engle is a Cuban American poet and novelist whose work has been published in many countries. Her books include the Newbery Honor-winning Surrender Tree, The Poet Slave of Cuba, Tropical Secrets, The Firefly Letters, and Hurricane Dancers. She lives with her husband in Northern California. Visit her website at www.margaritaengle.com.