Matt De La Peña

26 books

About the Author

Matt De La Peña is an acclaimed American author renowned for his poignant young adult novels that explore the complexities of identity, family, and cultural heritage among Latino youth. Drawing from his own experiences growing up in a multicultural Southern California community, De La Peña crafts stories that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth, often blending elements of sports, urban life, and personal growth. A former college basketball player, he infuses his narratives with vivid depictions of athletic passion and the struggles of adolescence. His debut novel, Mexican WhiteBoy, earned widespread praise for its raw portrayal of a biracial teen navigating prejudice and self-discovery on the baseball field. De La Peña's work has garnered multiple awards, including the Newbery Medal, and continues to inspire readers to embrace their multifaceted identities.

Common genres

Adventure Biography Children's Literature Children's Nonfiction Childrens Coming-of-Age Family Fantasy Fiction Inspirational Literary Fiction Picture Book Romance Short Stories Sports Sports History superhero fiction Thriller urban fiction Young Adult Young Adult Fiction

Writing style

lyrical authentic emotionally resonant