Summer Birds: The Butterflies of Maria Merian

Margarita Engle is a Cuban American poet, novelist, and journalist whose work has been published in many countries. She is the author of young adult nonfiction books and novels in verse including The Surrender Tree, a Newbery Honor Book, The Poet Slave of Cuba, Hurricane Dancers, The Firefly Letters, and Tropical Secrets. She lives in northern California.

I am a painter and illustrator. Over the years I have exhibited many paintings and work in various other media (including cut paper, embroidery, quilts and bread). I have illustrated more than 25 books. I design fabric and make quilts. Although my work flows in many directions, all of the ideas and creations are connected. I like to make things, to read, to draw and to play outside. The work (and play) I do in one area inspires the work and play in others. Ideas beget ideas. I live in Seattle with my husband Joe Max Emminger and our cat Ruby. My cat and I both like looking at birds, although we have different intentions.