Join these authors for a discussion about their stunning novels written in-verse, all about young Latinas facing challenges around identity and growing up. 2015 State Poet Laureate of Texas Carmen Tafolla’s Warrior Girl explores a Chicana girl’s experience fighting for name, history, and the right to celebrate what she wants. Award-winning poet, playwright, and author Jasmine Mendez’s Ariana Del Mar Jumps In follows a 12-year-old Dominican American swimmer diagnosed with Juvenile Arthritis as she navigates chronic illness and disability. Newbery Honor Award-winning author Andrea Beatriz Arango’s Something Like Home tells the story of a young girl grappling with the foster care system and feelings of distance and isolation.

Moderator: Esperanza Garza-Danweber

Book Signing: 1:30 PM at Children’s Book Signing TentCarmen Tafolla, Jasminne Mendez, Andrea Arango, Warrior Girl, Aniana Del Mar Jumps In, Something Like HomeCarmen Tafolla, Jasminne Mendez, Andrea Arango, Warrior Girl, Aniana Del Mar Jumps In, Something Like Home