Author Profile
Matt de la Peña
20 Books
Matt de la Peña is a New York Times bestselling author celebrated for his compelling and empathetic contributions to young adult and children's literature. His acclaimed novels, such as "Ball Don't Lie" and "I Will Save You," often delve into the lives of diverse characters navigating significant challenges, exploring themes of identity and social class. De la Peña also pens award-winning picture books like "Milo Imagines the World," showcasing his versatile storytelling ability across different age groups while promoting themes of empathy and resilience.
Infinity Ring
Eternity: Book 8
Matt de la Peña
Action
Adventure
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/5
The Living
The Living
Matt de la Peña
Action
Adventure
-
/5
We Were Here
Matt de la Peña
Adventure
Diverse Voices
-
/5
The Living
The Hunted
Matt de la Peña
Action
Adventure
-
/5
A Nation's Hope: The Story of Boxing Legend Joe Louis
Matt de la Peña
Biography
Courage
-
/5
Superman
Dawnbreaker
Matt de la Peña
Action
Courage
-
/5
Infinity Ring
Curse of the Ancients: Book 4
Matt de la Peña
Action
Adventure
-
/5
Mexican WhiteBoy
Matt de la Peña
Family
Sports
-
/5
Ball Don't Lie
Matt de la Peña
Courage
Diverse Voices
-
/5
I Will Save You
Matt de la Peña
Emotions
Fiction
-
/5
Miguel and the Grand Harmony
Matt de la Peña
Dreams
Family
-
/5
Home
Matt de la Peña
Emotions
Empathy
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/5
The Perfect Place
Matt de la Peña
Emotions
Empathy
-
/5
Love
Matt de la Peña, Loren Long
Dreams
Emotions
-
/5
Last Stop on Market Street
Matt de la Peña, Christian Robinson
Diverse Voices
Empathy
-
/5
Patchwork
Matt de la Peña, Corinna Luyken
Creativity
Diverse Voices
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/5
Carmela Full of Wishes
Matt de la Peña, Christian Robinson
Culture
Dreams
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/5
Milo Imagines the World
Matt de la Peña, Christian Robinson
Diverse Voices
Empathy
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/5
Flying Lessons & Other Stories
Soman Chainani, Kwame Alexander, Grace Lin, Jacqueline Woodson, Meg Medina, Matt de la Peña, Ellen Oh, Tim Tingle, Kelly J. Baptist
Anthologies
Diverse Voices
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/5
Hope Wins: A Collection of Inspiring Stories for Young Readers
Sarah Mlynowski, Max Brallier, Stuart Gibbs, Tom Angleberger, Julie Buxbaum, Pablo Cartaya, J.C. Cervantes, Rex Ogle, Matt de la Peña, Adam Gidwitz, Veera Hiranandani, Hena Khan, Gordon Korman, Rose Brock
Anthologies
Emotions
-
/5
Dak, Sera, and Riq have successfully mended the Great Breaks in history, but their ultimate challenge is just beginning. The dangerous SQ organization is far from defeated, and the stakes have never been higher for the universe. Plunged into the biggest and boldest Infinity Ring adventure yet, the trio must race against time itself to protect the timeline from total collapse.
Their journey pushes them to their absolute limits as they face new threats and uncover secrets that could change the past, present, and future forever. With the fate of reality hanging in the balance, they will need every ounce of courage and cunning to outsmart their enemies.
This action-packed continuation of the beloved time-travel series delivers non-stop thrills, complex mysteries, and incredible historical twists. Perfect for young adventurers who love high-stakes missions and mind-bending puzzles, this story will keep you guessing until the very last second. Grab your Infinity Ring and prepare for a journey where every decision could rewrite history.
9-12 Years
192 Pages
N/A
/5
The Living
The Living
By:
Matt de la Peña
After an earthquake shatters California and a tsunami sinks the luxury cruise ship where he works, high‑schooler Shy finds himself battling nature’s fury and his own survival instincts. Stranded on a deserted coastline, he must use courage, ingenuity, and the skills he’s learned to stay alive. The novel blends relentless action with a coming‑of‑age journey, showing how a young person can rise to meet extraordinary challenges.
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
311 Pages
N/A
/5
Miguel is carrying a secret so heavy it has completely derailed his life. Sentenced to a group home for troubled youth, his only plan is to keep his head down, read his books, and quietly serve his time. But fate intervenes when he crosses paths with two unlikely companions: Mong, a brilliant but dangerously unpredictable boy, and Rondell, a gentle giant who struggles to control his explosive temper. Deciding they have had enough of the system, this mismatched trio breaks out and hits the open road. You will follow their bold, desperate journey down the California coast as they attempt to reach Mexico and start fresh. With no money, the authorities hot on their trail, and only each other to rely on, their escape is packed with unexpected challenges and raw discoveries. As the miles roll by, Miguel is forced to confront the painful truth of his past. This deeply emotional adventure explores the powerful bonds of brotherhood, the crushing weight of guilt, and the difficult, winding road to forgiveness.
13-18 Years
N/A
/5
The Living
The Hunted
By:
Matt de la Peña
Shy survived the earthquake, tsunami, and a sunken cruise ship, only to discover a secret that makes him a target. With Addie’s dangerous knowledge and a mysterious piece of information that could upend everything, Shy must navigate a treacherous world where allies are scarce and threats lurk everywhere. The sequel ramps up the stakes, delivering relentless action, diverse characters, and a pulse‑pounding survival saga for readers who love high‑octane adventure.
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
363 Pages
N/A
/5
On the brink of World War II, the boxing ring became a powerful stage for a much larger battle. African-American boxer Joe Louis stepped into the spotlight to face German champion Max Schmeling in a heavyweight bout that gripped the entire world. This was no ordinary fight; for millions of Americans, it symbolized the nation's looming struggle against the oppressive forces of Germany.
This inspiring biography brings to life the incredible true story of an American sports hero who carried the weight of a country on his shoulders. With intense focus and quiet dignity, Joe Louis fought for far more than a title. He fought for pride, equality, and the foundational ideals of his country.
Step back in time to witness a historic moment when the American people set aside their differences and united to cheer for a single man. It is a powerful exploration of courage, sportsmanship, and the enduring strength required to stand up against injustice.
9-12 Years
40 Pages
N/A
/5
Superman
Dawnbreaker
By:
Matt de la Peña
Clark Kent has always known he is different. He is faster, stronger, and far more durable than anyone else in Smallville. But possessing incredible powers is not the same as earning them, and lately, keeping his abilities hidden in the shadows has become nearly impossible.
When Clark hears a girl crying in the distance, his extraordinary senses lead him to Gloria Alvarez. He quickly uncovers a terrifying mystery: people are vanishing without a trace from the local Mexican-American and undocumented worker communities. The police are not helping, so Clark realizes he must step out of the darkness and take action. Teaming up with his fiercely loyal best friend, Lana Lang, he sets out to uncover the truth behind the disappearances.
Before he can become the iconic hero the world knows as Superman, Clark must first save his own hometown. This bold and thrilling adventure explores the early days of a legendary figure, showing how a young man caught between two worlds learns to use his immense gifts for justice and hope.
9-12 Years
336 Pages
N/A
/5
The mission is simple but deadly: fix the past to save the future. Dak, Sera, and Riq are back in action, and this time, the Infinity Ring is sending them deep into the heart of one of history’s greatest mysteries. They have arrived in the era of the Ancient Maya, but the lush jungles and towering pyramids are hiding dark and dangerous secrets.
The villainous SQ organization has its grips on this ancient civilization, and the team must uncover the hidden connection before the timeline is permanently shattered. Navigating through complex puzzles, hidden traps, and powerful historical figures, they must rely on their wits and teamwork to survive. If they fail, the future as they know it will be erased entirely.
Packed with relentless suspense, fascinating historical details, and incredible time-traveling twists, this adventure will push the trio to their absolute limits. Prepare to dive into a high-stakes puzzle where history itself is the ultimate prize.
9-12 Years
192 Pages
N/A
/5
Danny is tall, skinny, and possesses a pitching arm that could make any college baseball scout drop their jaw. He can throw a ninety-five-mile-an-hour fastball, but there is one massive problem: he chokes every time he steps onto the mound in a real game. At his private school, nobody expects much from him anyway. Being half-Mexican with blonde-haired, blue-eyed family roots, Danny feels like he does not belong anywhere.
Convinced that his mixed heritage is the reason his father moved back to Mexico, Danny decides to spend the summer with his dad's family in San Diego. He hopes the trip will help him understand who he really is. Instead, he discovers that finding his identity means confronting the painful demons he has been trying to ignore. Along the way, he finds a surprising new friendship that challenges everything he thought he knew about himself.
This gritty, realistic, and incredibly moving story explores the heavy weight of expectations and the turbulent journey to self-acceptance. It is a powerful read about baseball, life, and the courage it takes to shape your own future.
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
256 Pages
N/A
/5
Meet Sticky, a boy who loves basketball more than anything! Sticky doesn't always have an easy time. He moves around a lot and sometimes feels like he doesn't quite fit in. It can be hard to know where you belong when things are tough.
But when Sticky steps onto the basketball court, everything changes. The ball is his best friend, and he can do amazing things with it! Playing basketball helps Sticky feel strong, important, and like he can make his own way in the world. This exciting story shows how a special talent can help you find your voice and believe in yourself, no matter what challenges you face. Join Sticky as he learns that with courage and a basketball, you can bounce back and shine!
9-12 Years
288 Pages
N/A
/5
Kidd Ellison is running as fast as he can from his troubled past and an uncertain future. With no parents to rely on and nothing waiting for him at his group home except more therapy, he escapes to a summer job at a California beach campsite. Here, the hard work and ocean breeze offer a fresh start, and he finally feels like he might find a reason to stay.
Then he meets Olivia. With her blonde hair, blue eyes, and wealthy background, she seems like the prettiest girl in Cardiff and entirely out of his league. She is hiding secrets of her own, but their undeniable connection gives Kidd a glimpse of genuine happiness.
Just as things start looking up, Devon arrives. Mean, mysterious, and driven by a dark energy, Devon is Kidd's best friend and worst enemy. He followed Kidd all the way to the beach, determined to teach him harsh lessons about life and Olivia. Now, Kidd must face the memories he has been trying to escape before they destroy his one chance at a better life.
9-12 Years
336 Pages
N/A
/5
Music is everywhere, if you just know how to listen. For a young boy named Miguel, the world is filled with beautiful sounds, and his heart beats to the rhythm of a grand harmony. Even when his family tells him that music is forbidden, the melodies continue to call out to him, urging him to follow his true passion.
Guided by the spirit of music itself, Miguel embarks on a colorful and emotional journey to prove that a song has the power to heal old wounds and bring loved ones together. Along the way, he discovers that the most important tune is the one that comes from within.
This beautifully told story captures the magic of following your dreams and the deep connections that tie families across generations. It is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the universal language of music and the courage it takes to share your voice with the world.
6-8 Years
N/A
/5
By:
Matt de la Peña
Home is much more than just a roof over your head or the walls that surround you. It is the soothing lullaby of late-night traffic outside your window and the distant sounds of a riverboat passing by. It is the warm feeling of safety, the daily gestures of love from your family, and the comforting support of a community during difficult times.
This deeply moving exploration takes you on a journey to discover the many beautiful ways we experience a sense of belonging. From bustling city apartments to quiet natural refuges shared with living creatures, you will see how home is truly where you feel most loved and true to yourself.
Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this tender celebration reminds us of the universal pull that connects us all to the places and people we hold dear. It is a gentle, poetic reflection on finding comfort in the world around us.
6-8 Years
25 Pages
N/A
/5
Lucas lives in two very different worlds. At his school, everything feels absolutely perfect. He gets perfect grades and fits right in. But when he returns to his bustling neighborhood, life is far from flawless. His dad's work truck is always breaking down, his mom works exhausting hours at a diner, and Lucas has to share a cramped room with his baby sister.
One night, a mysterious light guides Lucas away from his home and into a dazzling place where all the perfect people live. It is beautiful and without flaws, but the longer he stays, the more he questions what perfection really means.
Does being perfect mean never making a mistake? Does it mean leaving behind the messy, chaotic love of his hardworking family? This uplifting story follows one boy as he discovers that the best place to be is exactly where you belong, flaws and all.
6-8 Years
33 Pages
N/A
/5
Love is the very first sound you hear when you are born, and it follows you everywhere you go. It is in the soft hum of a cab driver's radio as you bounce through the busy city streets. It is found in the comforting shadow of a parent watching over you, and even in the quiet moments of darkness when you need a reassuring hand.
This tender and moving story explores the many beautiful ways we experience love throughout our lives. From the shared joy of a family gathering to the unspoken comfort during tough times, it shows how love connects us all in a powerful, unbreakable bond.
Perfect for reading together, this heartfelt celebration reminds us that love is always present, guiding us from childhood and beyond. It is a comforting embrace in book form that will resonate deeply with every reader.
6-8 Years
41 Pages
N/A
/5
Every Sunday after church, young CJ and his loving nana board the city bus for a ride across town. But today, CJ is feeling a little frustrated. He wonders why they have to wait in the pouring rain, why they don't have a car of their own, and why they always get off in a neighborhood that looks so rundown.
With gentle wisdom, his nana patiently answers every question. Instead of focusing on what they lack, she opens CJ's eyes to the everyday magic surrounding them. She points out the incredible beauty of the bustling city streets, the spontaneous music played by their fellow passengers, and the vibrant spirit of the community they are traveling to serve.
This award-winning, heartwarming tale celebrates the special bond between a grandparent and grandchild while offering a beautiful lesson in gratitude. It is a gentle reminder that if you look closely enough, you can find joy, kindness, and wonder in the most unexpected places.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
You are not just one single thing, and your story is far from finished. Like a beautifully crafted quilt, a person is made up of many different, colorful pieces stitched together over time. Sometimes you might feel shy and quiet, and other times you might be bold and loud. Every mistake you make, every triumph you experience, and every emotion you feel adds a new, vibrant patch to the fabric of who you are.
This profound and deeply moving book explores the complex, beautiful reality of growing up and figuring out your identity. It gently reminds readers that it is perfectly fine if you do not have everything figured out right away. You are a brilliant, evolving masterpiece, constantly changing and adding new layers to your personality.
With breathtaking warmth and wisdom, this story is an empowering celebration of self-acceptance. It encourages you to embrace every unique part of yourself, knowing that the most beautiful lives are the ones stitched together with love, resilience, and endless possibility.
9-12 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
Carmela has been waiting for this day for what feels like forever. It is finally her birthday, which means she is officially old enough to tag along with her big brother on his weekend errands. Bursting with excitement, she follows him through the vibrant streets of their neighborhood.
Together, they pass the crowded bus stop, the busy repair shop, and the sweet-smelling bakery. When they finally reach the laundromat, Carmela spots something magical: a lone dandelion growing stubbornly through a crack in the concrete. Just as she prepares to blow the white fluff into the air, her brother stops her—she needs to make a wish first. But with so many hopes in her heart, how can she choose just one?
This stunning and evocative story is a beautiful ode to dreamers, family bonds, and the quiet magic found in everyday life.
6-8 Years
41 Pages
N/A
/5
Milo is settling in for a long subway ride with his older sister. To pass the time, he becomes an observer of the world, studying the faces on the train and drawing pictures of their imagined lives. He sketches a man with a crossword puzzle living in a messy apartment, and pictures a boy in a crisp suit returning home to a grand castle.
But when that same boy in the suit gets off at Milo's stop and walks to the exact same place as Milo, everything changes. Milo quickly realizes that the stories he dreamed up might not match reality at all.
This poignant story shows us that you can never truly know someone just by looking at them. It is a heartfelt reminder to look closer and approach everyone with kindness and an open mind.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
N/A
/5
Growing up is an adventure filled with wild dreams, embarrassing family fiascos, first crushes, and the challenge of navigating new neighborhoods. In this incredible collection of short stories, ten of the most brilliant authors writing today come together to celebrate exactly what makes every young person both unique and universally connected.
You will meet a boy who just might possess magical powers, told entirely in rhythmic verse. You will read about an unbreakable friendship that survives against all odds, and follow a girl who uses wet paint to vividly color the world around her. Each distinct voice brings a fresh perspective to the struggles and triumphs of finding your place in the world.
Whether you have ever felt like you did not quite fit in or you simply love a great tale of discovery, these bold stories will challenge and inspire you. Grab this anthology to experience a soaring journey through the beautiful, diverse tapestry of everyday life.
9-12 Years
240 Pages
N/A
/5
A Collection of Inspiring Stories for Young Readers
Have you ever wondered where to find hope, especially when things feel a little tough? This special book brings together many amazing writers, like Matt de la Peña and R.L. Stine, to share their own true stories and thoughts about where hope comes from and how it helps us.
You'll discover that hope can be found all around you! It might be in your loving family, with your good friends, at your school, or even deep inside your own heart. Journey through tales about a cozy family restaurant, a fun car shaped like a hot dog, or happy holiday times in a classroom. Each story reminds you that no matter what challenges you face, hope is always there to light the way. These inspiring messages show that even in the darkest moments, hope wins!
9-12 Years
208 Pages
N/A
/5
