Books in Hispanic Heritage series

Born the only son in a family of six daughters, Oscar de la Renta was pressured early on by his father to take over the family's insurance business in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic. But the young man was more interested in the world of art than in the world of finance. Nevertheless, his father's business savvy was not lost on Oscar de la Renta. When, as an art student in Madrid, Spain, de la Renta found that he was short on funds, he took a job sketching designs for a fashion company. Within 10 years, he was designing clothing with his own label and gaining a loyal clientele of wealthy socialite women as well as working women. He is the designer who dresses corporate businesswomen as well as first ladies. Today, the Oscar de la Renta name is a virtual empire, one that resonates far beyond the fashion world.Oscar de la Renta describes this fashion designer's life, how he came to dress some of the most visible women in the world, and how his father's business acumen helped him on and off the runway.

Beloved, influential, and prolific singer-songwriter Celia Cruz was one of the most successful salsa artists in the 20th century. As a young woman, she sang her way into the hearts of radio listeners throughout her native Cuba and charmed the hearts of audiences as the lead singer of a renowned Cuban orchestra. Her popularity continued to grow, resulting in concerts and engagements abroad. When Fidel Castro took power in Cuba, Cruz and her husband refused to return, instead settling in New Jersey. There, her career flourished, and she recorded more records, appeared in films, and won multiple awards. When she died in 2003, a large funeral procession was held for those mourning the death of the "Queen of Salsa." This new biography of Celia Cruz examines the colorful life of this artist through descriptive text, vivid photographs, and helpful research features.

These riveting personalities each achieved excellence, but even greater than their individual accomplishments is the positive Hispanic image they collectively represent to the world. Photographs, illustrations, and lively text tell the stories ot these fascinating historical figures. With his unique blend of blues, rock, and Afro-Cuban rhythms, Santana has kept himsslf visible on the popular music scene for more than 30 years.

Rising from a childhood of poverty and disgrace, Eva Peron became one of the most influential figures in Argentina's history first, as a celebrity and then as the nation's First Lady. To the working classes, Peron was a saint who worked tirelessly to help the poor and improve life for Argentina's people. To the other members of society, however, Peron was seen as a selfish, arrogant woman who cared only about herself and her image. For decades, people have argued over whether she was an angel or the devil. This well-researched, compelling presents a balanced portrayal of Eva Peron's life and achievements, while looking at both sides of the controversy surrounding a woman who was truly larger than life.