Hardcover40 pagesCelebrate the power of storytelling in this gorgeous and lyrical picture book biography of Pura Belpr, the first Puerto Rican librarian in New York City.

*Indie Next List Pick *Junior Library Guild Selection *Pura BelprHonor*

An appealing tribute and successful remedy to the lack of titles about the groundbreaking librariana must-have for all libraries. School Library Journal(starred review)

A gorgeous and lyrical picture book biography of Pura Belpr, the first Puerto Rican librarian in New York City.

When she came to America in 1921, Pura Belpr carried the cuentos folklricos of her Puerto Rican homeland. Finding a new home at the New York Public Library as a bilingual assistant, she turned her popular retellings into libros and spread story seeds across the land. Today, these seeds have grown into a lush landscape as generations of children and storytellers continue to share her tales and celebrate Puras legacy.

Brought to colorful life with Paola Escobars fresh, exuberant, and elegant illustrations and Anika Aldamuy Denises lyrical text, this portrait of the influential librarian, author, and puppeteer reminds us of the power of storytelling and the extraordinary woman who opened doors and championed bilingual literature.

Includes an authors note that gives context to Puras achievements, which forever influenced educators roles as teachers, storytellers, and active members of the community. Theres also a selected bibliography, further reading, and more.

Anika Aldamuy Denises intimate telling captures the magical, folk-tale feeling of Belprs own stories. Her lyrical text, sprinkled like fairy dust with Spanish words, begs to be read aloud, while Paola Escobars stylishly detailed and warmly expressive illustrations capture the joy of sharing stories. New York Times Book Review