Stella Pope Duarte

Stella Pope Duarte, inspired to write by a prophetic dream of her father in 1995, is hailed by critics as a ?major, literary voice in America.? Duarte is described by Jacquelyn Mitchard as a ?magical weaver with a sure hand and a pure heart,? and by Ursula K. Le Guin as an author who ?will enlarge humanity.? Her work has won honors and awards nationwide, including the prestigious, Luis Leal Award for Distinction in Chicano/Latino Literature from UC Santa Barbara, the American Book Award, Southwest Book of the Year Award, Women in American History Award, Chicano/Latino Literary Prize from UC at Irvine, and a Book Sense 76 Selection. Born and raised in the Sonorita Barrio in South Phoenix, she is a descendant of Irish and Mexican American parents. She has never forgotten her humble beginnings, and believes that her faith and love of family have formed the foundation for her success.