Modern history unearthed as a boy becomes an innocent victim of corruption in the underbelly of Bolivia''s crime world, where the power of family is both a prison and the only means of survival. It''s 1999 in Bolivia and Francisco''s life consists of school, soccer, and trying to find space for himself in his family''s cramped yet boisterous home. But when his father is arrested on false charges and sent to prison by a corrupt system that targets the uneducated, the poor, and the indigenous majority, Francisco''s mother abandons hope and her family. Francisco and his sister are left with no choice: They must move into the prison with their father. There, they find a world unlike anything they''ve ever known, where everything--a door, a mattress, protection from other inmates--has its price. Prison life is dirty, dire, and dehumanizing. With their lives upended, Francisco faces an impossible decision: Break up the family and take his sister to their grandparents in the Andean highlands, fleeing the city and the future that was just within his grasp, or remain together in the increasingly dangerous prison. Pulled between two equally undesirable options, Francisco must confront everything he once believed about the world around him and his place within it.

In this heart-wrenching novel inspired by real events, Melanie Crowder sheds light on a little-known era of modern South American history--where injustice still darkens the minds and hearts of people alike--and proves that hope can be found, even in the most desperate places. Perfect for fans of Ruta Sepetys, Matt de la Pena, and Jacqueline Woodson. Praise for Melanie Crowder''s AUDACITY: A 2015 National Jewish Book Award finalist A Washington Post Best Children''s Books for April: Poetry Edition A New York Public Library Best Book for Teens An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society An ALA Top 10 Best Fiction for Young Adults Pick An ALSC Notable Children''s Book nominee A BCCB Blue Ribbon winner * "Crowder breathes life into a world long past.Compelling, powerful and unforgettable." -- Kirkus Reviews , starred review * "This book stands alone.an impactful addition to any historical fiction collection."-- School Library Journal , starred review * "With a thorough historical note, glossary of terms, and bibliography, this will make an excellent complement to units on women''s rights and the labor movement, but it will also satisfy readers in search of a well-told tale of a fierce heroine."-- BCCB , starred review * "This is an excellent title that can open discussions in U.

S. history and economics courses about women''s rights, labor unions, and the immigrant experience."-- School Library Connection , starred review "Based on the true story of Clara Lemlich, Audacity throbs with the emotions of this exceptional young woman who fought for equal rights and improved labor standards in factories. Melanie Crowder''s verses spit out Clara''s rage, cradle her longing and soar like the birds that are her constant companions."-- Bookpage "Crowder''s ( Parched ) use of free verse in this fictionalization of Russian-Jewish immigrant Clara Lemlich''s life brings a spare poignancy to a familiar history."-- Publishers Weekly " Audacity is an evocative reimagining of a fascinating historical figure who should be remembered for her determination in the face of great odds and powerful opposition--and for her role in changing America. Melanie Crowder''s powerful verse reveals a long-past world, but the combination of hope and outrage that Clara Lemlich brought to her struggle should be both recognizable and inspirational to teen readers longing to right the injustices of our day."--Margaret Peterson Haddix, critically acclaimed, bestselling author of Uprising.