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2026 Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award

“Alberto Salas is on a mission: to discover and document all the potatoes he can “before they’re lost for good.” …Each day the growing effects of climate change make his endeavor more urgent. Blending an affable, often playful tone and a loose yet incredibly informative narrative peppered with words in Spanish and Quechua, Fajardo recounts the potato expert’s adventures in all their glory, putting the story into a broader context that makes clear the global issue of widespread hunger. …A robust glossary and backmatter delving further into Salas’ work and the diversity of potatoes round out a sublime portrait.”

– Kirkus Review, Starred Review

Alberto Salas Plays Paka Paka Con La Papa

Written by Sara Andrea Fajardo
Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
Published by Roaring Brook Press

Join the Quest with Peru’s Famed Scientist and Potato Expert

High up in the Andes mountains of Peru, agricultural scientist Alberto Salas is on a quest. A quest… for potatoes.

Up and down the Andes mountains he goes, playing an epic game of paka paka con la papa, potato hide and seek. Finding each and every last potato so he can save them before they go extinct.

The world depends on his work, and as global warming gets worse, the climate will only continue to change — Alberto doesn’t have a second to waste. The game is on!

Alberto races and peers and prods. Drives and trods and climbs. Will he find the potato he seeks? Will he win the game of paka paka con la papa?

Author Sara Andrea Fajardo’s spirited biography about “the godfather of potatoes” is paired with lush art by Caldecott-honoree Juana Martinez-Neal to capture how celebrated scientist Alberto Salas brings joy, curiosity, and fun to his very important, life-changing work.

Look for the Spanish version, Alberto Salas Juega a la Paka Paka Con La Papa.

Primary ISBN: 9781250838612
Publication Date: March 2025
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Peru

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Home Country

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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