Matt de la Peña is an award-winning author known for his powerful and thought-provoking stories that delve into the complexity of human experiences. He has written a number of books which often explore themes of identity, family, and the struggles of everyday life.
Matt de la Peña Books in Order
- Last Stop on Market Street
- Love
- Mexican WhiteBoy
- The Living (The Living, #1)
- Superman: Dawnbreaker
- We Were Here
- Milo Imagines the World
- Carmela Full of Wishes
- Curse of the Ancients (Infinity Ring, #4)
- I Will Save You
Summary of Matt de la Peña Books in Order
Last Stop on Market Street
“Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Peña is a children’s book that follows the story of a young boy named CJ and his grandmother as they take a bus ride through the city. As CJ questions why they don’t have a car like his friends, his grandmother teaches him to appreciate the beauty and diversity of their urban environment. Along the way, they encounter a variety of characters and experiences that challenge CJ’s perceptions and ultimately teach him valuable life lessons about gratitude, empathy, and community.
The book explores important themes such as social inequality, the power of perspective, and the value of finding beauty in unexpected places. The engaging storyline and vibrant illustrations make it an excellent choice for children and families looking to explore these topics in a relatable and accessible way. “Last Stop on Market Street” has received widespread acclaim for its powerful storytelling and meaningful messages, making it a beloved addition to many children’s bookshelves.
Through CJ’s journey and interactions with the diverse individuals he meets, “Last Stop on Market Street” encourages readers to embrace difference, find joy in everyday experiences, and practice empathy towards others. The book’s heartwarming narrative and universal themes have resonated with readers of all ages, making it a timeless and impactful addition to children’s literature.
Love
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Mexican WhiteBoy
“MEXICAN WHITEBOY” by Matt de la Peña tells the story of Danny, a Mexican-American teenager struggling with his identity. Danny feels like he doesn’t fit in anywhere – not with his Mexican side, and not with his white side. He feels like an outsider in his own family, and he struggles to find his place in the world. When he spends the summer with his dad’s family in National City, he meets Uno, a talented and confident baseball player who helps Danny find his passion for the sport and navigate his feelings of displacement.
The novel explores themes of race, identity, and belonging in a raw and compelling way. It delves into the complexities of being biracial and the struggles of finding acceptance in a society that tries to fit people into neat boxes. Through Danny’s journey, readers are invited to reflect on their own beliefs and biases about race and culture. With poignant storytelling and relatable characters, the book offers a powerful message about embracing one’s identity and finding strength in diversity.
With its authentic portrayal of teenage angst and the universal struggle to belong, “MEXICAN WHITEBOY” is a poignant and thought-provoking coming-of-age story that resonates with readers of all backgrounds. Matt de la Peña’s compelling narrative and rich character development make this a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of race and identity in America.
The Living (The Living, #1)
“The Living” by Matt de la Peña is a gripping young adult novel that follows the story of Shy, a young cruise ship worker who finds himself in the middle of a terrifying disaster. When a massive earthquake hits California and triggers a devastating tsunami, Shy must fight for survival amidst the chaos and destruction. As he navigates through the aftermath of the disaster, he forms unexpected alliances and confronts the harsh realities of human nature. The novel is a powerful exploration of resilience, courage, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The book is filled with heart-pounding action and intense moments as Shy and the other survivors struggle to stay alive in the wake of the disaster. Matt de la Peña’s vivid and evocative writing brings the harrowing events to life, immersing readers in the gripping narrative. The novel also delves into deeper themes of social inequality, as Shy grapples with issues of race and class while trying to find his place in the brutal aftermath of the catastrophe. With its compelling characters and thought-provoking storytelling, “The Living” is a riveting read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Overall, “The Living” is a thrilling and emotionally resonant story that combines pulse-pounding suspense with poignant reflections on human nature and society. Matt de la Peña’s masterful storytelling and rich character development make this book a must-read for fans of survival fiction and young adult literature. The novel’s exploration of resilience, hope, and the indomitable human spirit offers a powerful and unforgettable reading experience.
Superman: Dawnbreaker
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We Were Here
“We Were Here” by Matt de la Peña follows the story of Miguel, a troubled teenager who is sent to a group home after a series of bad decisions. As he reflects on his past and his mistakes, he is also dealing with the emotional aftermath of a tragic event that occurred in his life. Along with two other teens, Rondell and Mong, Miguel embarks on a journey of self-discovery as they escape from the group home and try to find freedom on their own terms.
The novel explores themes of friendship, family, and the search for identity as Miguel and his companions navigate through the challenges and dangers of the streets. As they encounter various obstacles and setbacks, they learn about the power of resilience and the importance of facing their past in order to move forward. Through their experiences, the characters grapple with the complexities of their own lives and form deep connections that ultimately shape their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
“We Were Here” offers a poignant and thought-provoking portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of young people who are trying to make sense of their lives. Matt de la Peña’s writing delves into the emotional turmoil of the characters, creating a compelling narrative that explores the impact of past experiences and the potential for hope and redemption. The novel ultimately conveys a message of resilience and the human capacity for growth and transformation.
Milo Imagines the World
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Carmela Full of Wishes
“Carmela Full of Wishes” is a heartwarming story about a young girl’s journey to discover her place in the world. Written by Matt de la Peña, the book follows Carmela as she celebrates her birthday and makes a special wish. The story captures the essence of childhood, with its joys, sorrows, and the sense of wonder that comes with growing up. As Carmela navigates her emotions and experiences, readers are taken on a poignant and tender exploration of family, identity, and the power of hope.
Set against the backdrop of a vibrant Latino neighborhood, the book explores the importance of dreams and the challenges of facing reality. Through beautiful prose and evocative illustrations, “Carmela Full of Wishes” portrays a universal tale of resilience, love, and the universal desire for a better future. With its themes of courage, empathy, and the bonds of family, the book offers a timeless message of hope and the potential for growth and self-discovery.
Ultimately, “Carmela Full of Wishes” is a compelling and poignant coming-of-age story that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a celebration of the human spirit and the power of love to transform and uplift even in the face of adversity. Matt de la Peña’s storytelling and Christian Robinson’s vivid illustrations combine to create a rich and captivating narrative that will leave a lasting impression on its audience.
Curse of the Ancients (Infinity Ring, #4)
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I Will Save You
“I Will Save You” by Matt de la Peña is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that follows the story of two teenagers, Kidd and Devon, who find themselves unraveling in the face of personal and familial struggles. The book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and redemption as the characters navigate the complexities of their lives. Devon, a troubled teenage boy from a broken home, finds solace in the companionship of his friend and confidante, Kidd. As their friendship deepens, they must confront their inner demons and make difficult choices that will determine the course of their lives.
The novel delves deep into the challenges and pressures facing today’s youth, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It tackles tough topics such as poverty, abuse, and the struggle for a sense of belonging. Peña’s raw and honest portrayal of the characters’ struggles resonates with readers, offering a poignant and thought-provoking look at the human condition. The book ultimately serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love and friendship to overcome adversity.
Through lyrical prose and compelling storytelling, Matt de la Peña crafts a powerful narrative that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful. “I Will Save You” is a poignant and relatable coming-of-age story that explores the complexities of human relationships and the enduring strength of the human spirit. With its universal themes and realistic characters, the novel is a compelling read that will appeal to readers of all ages.
About Matt de la Peña
Matt de la Peña is an accomplished author with numerous accolades to his name, including being a New York Times best-selling author and winning the Newbery Medal. With six young adult novels and four picture books to his credit, de la Peña has established himself as a respected figure in the literary world. He holds an MFA in creative writing from San Diego State University and attended the University of the Pacific on a full athletic scholarship for basketball, where he earned his BA. Currently residing in Brooklyn, NY, de la Peña is also a dedicated educator, teaching creative writing and regularly visiting high schools and colleges across the country. For more information, you can visit his website at mattdelapena.com.
In conclusion, the books written by Matt de la Peña offer a diverse and thought-provoking exploration of identity, family, and social issues. His stories provide a platform for readers to engage with complex themes such as racism, poverty, and the American Dream, while also celebrating the resilience and strength of marginalized communities. By presenting characters and situations that challenge societal norms and expectations, de la Peña’s work encourages readers to critically examine their own beliefs and values, fostering empathy and understanding for those whose experiences may differ from their own. Through his powerful storytelling, de la Peña challenges readers to confront their bias and expand their compassion towards others.
FAQs about author Matt de la Peña
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