"An excellent novel, written in the form of an autobiography, about the painter Velazquez and his Negro slave and assistant, Juan de Pareja...[who] was legally prohibited from painting because he was a slave." -Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Fascinating life story of the Italian Renaissance painter, Velasquez and his black slave. Told through the eyes of Velasquez's slave and assistant, this vibrant novel depicts both the beauty and the cruelty of 17th century Spain and tells the story of Juan, who was born a slave and died a respected artist.

80 pgs

About the Author: From childhood, Elizabeth Borton de Treviño enjoyed the sound of the Spanish language. The California native's interest in Spanish led her to study the literature, language, and history of Spain at Stanford University. Knowledge of Spanish soon began opening doors for her, helping her win a job as a newspaper reporter and then giving her opportunities to travel. In her long writing career, de Treviño has produced many books for young people, including El Guero and Leona: A Love Story. In 1966 de Treviño received the Newbery Medal for I, Juan de Pareja.