Memoir in verse of Margarita Engle's teenage years in Los Angeles against the turbulent backdrop of the Vietnam War. Addresses the notions of peace, civil rights, freedom of expression, and environmental protection. A companion and follow-up to Engle's work, Enchanted air.

"In this follow-up to her award-winning memoir Enchanted Air, Margarita Engle details her teenage years in Los Angeles against the turbulent backdrop of the Vietnam War. In vulnerable verse, she addresses the notions of peace, civil rights, freedom of expression, and environmental protection that are once again under threat. Despite these circumstances, young Margarita was able to find solace and empowerment through her education"--