Margarita Engle

Margarita Engle is a renowned Cuban-American author celebrated for her vivid historical novels and poetry for young readers. Born in 1951, she draws inspiration from her Cuban heritage and interest in nature, weaving lyrical narratives that explore themes of identity, culture, and resilience. Her groundbreaking novel "The Surrender Tree" earned her the prestigious Newbery Honor, while "Enchanted Air," a poetic memoir, won the Pura Belpré Award. Engle's work often highlights underrepresented Latino voices, using rich language to bring their stories to life. As a trained agronomist and passionate advocate for peace, her storytelling continues to inspire and educate readers globally.