Island Treasures: Growing Up in Cuba

Description

In this treasure chest of remarkable stories, which includes two previous books, Where the Flame Trees Bloom and Under the Royal Palms [Pura Belpre Medal] celebrated author Alma Flor Ada offers inspiring reflections on a unique childhood and the island where she grew up. These true tales are filled with family love and traditions, secrets and deep friendships. Told through the eyes of a child, they bring a whole world to life for the reader: the blind great-grandmother who never went to school, bur whose wisdom and generosity overflowed to those around her; tyhe hired hand Samone, whose love for music overcame all difficulties; the beloved dance teacher, who helped sustain young Alma Flor through a miserable year in school; her dear and daring uncle Medardo, who bravely flew airplanes; and more, including five new stories of Days at La Quinta Simoni. Heartwarming, poignant, and often humorous, this reach anthology encourages readers to discover the stories in their own lives –and to celebrate the joys and struggles we all share, no matter where or when we grew up.

About the Author:
Alma Flor Ada

Alma Flor Ada, Professor Emerita at the University of San Francisco, has devoted her life to advocacy for peace by promoting a pedagogy oriented to personal realization and social jus­tice. A former Radcliffe Scholar at Harvard University and Fulbright Research Scholar she is an internationally re-known speaker.