In the novel, We Were Here, a troubled young man leaves a lasting impression as he uncovers the shadows that haunt him. This is an award-winning novel by Matt de la Pena published in 2009.
De la Pena openly confesses that he never read a complete book until after he graduated from high school. That one statement makes him a hero to me. His remarkable writing career and dedication have created stories that reach out to the kids who need a hero, the reluctant readers who sit in the back row of classrooms everywhere. Kids like me.
When you search de la Pena’s accomplishments you will discover no less than forty-one books for children and young adults that he has authored or co-authored.
His voice in these publications, on his website (mattdelapena.com), and in his various audio-recorded interviews is fresh, generous, and full of hope for the magic of the written word to feed the human spirit and release the sorrows that so often strangle our joy.
Sometimes The 'Tough Teen' Is Quietly Writing Stories : Code Switch : NPR
Matt de la Peña is the New York Times bestselling, Newbery Medal winning author of seven young adult novels (including Mexican White Boy, We Were Here and Superman: Dawnbreaker) and five picture books (including Last Stop on Market Street and Love).
Matt de la Peña (mattdelapena.com)
Oh, that my own late-blooming novels will touch a heart and encourage a reader. My historic fiction includes stories of diverse characters in the early years of California prior to statehood. Twisted Cross, Golden Secrets, and Broken Promises are available from all major outlets and at https://anitaperezferguson.com.
What a powerful story for other reluctant readers ... yours and de la Peña. Congratulations and best wishes to you as you work on your second award-winning trilogy.