Krull has written a very personal and appealing biography of César Chávez, founder of the National Farm Workers' Association. The captivating illustrations of Yuyi Morales show Chávez within his communities of family, field and protest. His story, from boyhood to labor leader, emphasizes that intelligence, sensitivity and a commitment to social justice on the part of one individual can indeed help change the world. As Chávez says at one point in the story, "nonviolence takes more guts." The story's momentum builds (as did the farm workers' movement) from the early, somewhat solitary efforts of Chávez to the 1966 march on Sacramento that began with 68 people and ended in a gathering of 10,000 in the California capital. This is, indeed, a story of hope.

Grades 3-5

Américas Award Honorable Mention, 2003

Pura Belpré Award Honor Book for Illustration, 2004