Krull, Kathleen. Illustrated by Yuyi Morales. 2003. Harvesting hope: the story of Cesar Chavez. New York: Harcourt, Inc.

Cesar Chavez, like Martin Luther King, Jr. believed in change without violence. When Cesar’s family had to leave their farm in Arizona due to financial difficulties, they migrated to California where they worked in vineyards under horrific conditions for little money. As Cesar grew, he became more and more upset over the treatment of migrant workers, and, he began listening to those who suggested that change was a possibility. After months of speaking to other workers about work conditions, Cesar organized a march from Delano, California to Sacramento, the state capitol. Krull tells Chavez’ story with compassion and sympathy and yet in a way that lets readers feel the hope that Chavez felt and walk along with him on his march for better work conditions. Morales’ illustrations are reminiscent of Mexican folk art, and the colorful, two-page spreads draw readers into the story’s setting, from the bountiful farm that belonged to Cesar’s family, to the long march to the state capitol.  From Arizona to Sacramento, California, readers will join Chavez in his cause and will learn more about a boy who grew up to change his world.