In the Spirit of a Dream: 13 Stories of American Immigrants of Color

In the Spirit of a Dream celebrates 13 remarkable American immigrants of color — including cellist Yo-Yo Ma, basketball player Dikembe Mutombo, politician Ilhan Omar, and activist Juana Gutierrez — through moving free-verse poems, each paired with a striking illustration by a different artist. The collection highlights the diverse paths, struggles, and achievements of these inspiring figures who have shaped American life. This book is an excellent choice for students because it broadens understanding of immigrant contributions to American history, models poetry as a form of biography, and celebrates diversity and perseverance.

Publishing Details

Author : Aida Salazar

Illustrator : Alina Chau

Author Nationality : United States

Physical Details

Type of Book: Picture Book

Cover: Softcover

Pages: 48

Size: 11.4 x 8.3 inches

Year Published: 2021

Instructional Details

Reading Grade Level: Kindergarten

Genre: Non-Fiction

Sub-Genre: Biography

Theme: Immigration, About POC, Identity, Social Issues