The 1998 Jane Addams Children's Book Award

Summary: In a neglected urban lot, a young girl's simple act of planting seeds sparks a transformation. As the garden grows, so do the dreams and connections of a diverse community. Curtis hopes to win back love with tomatoes, Virgil's dad sees profit in lettuce, and Maricela, a pregnant teen, seeks solace. Thirteen voices, each with unique struggles and hopes, weave a tapestry of renewal and unity. Can a garden truly change lives and mend a fractured neighborhood? Discover the power of growth and community in this compelling tale of hope and transformation.

Summary: In a Mexican border town, a father helps his family cross into the U.S., beginning a life of impermanence and struggle. Young Panchito grows amidst labor camps, picking crops and facing poverty. As the family expands from four to ten, they endure with faith and resilience. These intertwined stories reveal the challenges and triumphs of a migrant family, offering a poignant glimpse into their relentless pursuit of a better future. Will their dreams withstand the harsh realities of their circuitous journey?