Paola Gómez's childhood in an abusive home led her to dedicate her life to providing shelter for women and children in crisis. But when standing up against those responsible for the murder of a street child led to death threats against her and her family, she knew she was in trouble. After a brutal attack in the dark of night, she had only one choice: flee or die. Within hours she had left behind everyone and everything she had ever known in Colombia to start a new life in North America, where she continues her advocacy work for children, women, and at-risk communities.

Natalie Hyde writes fiction and non-fiction for middle-grade and young adult readers. Her fiction titles include Mine!, Saving Armpit, I Owe You One and Hockey Girl. She is also the author of over forty educational non-fiction books, as well as trade non-fiction titles: Cryptic Canada, Glow-in-the-Dark Creatures and Stay Strong: A Musician’s Journey from Congo to Canada. Her books have garnered award nominations in both Canada and the U.S. She lives in Flamborough, Ontario, with her family.

Natalie Hyde's profile page

"Stay Silent: A Refugees' Escape from Columbia is an excellent book for classroom discussions in regards to social justice topics. It is well written, not overly complicated in its delivery and message, and will interest many who want to learn more about refugees from a narrative non-fiction book instead of an information non-fiction book. Often this type of story will keep readers engaged longer in understanding the character's life."
— Resource Links

"Hyde does the story justice. The writing is engaging, the chapters are short, and the details (both big and small) help bring readers into Gomez's world and create a greater understanding of what life is like for newcomers, particularly refugees. . . Hyde could have made clearer why the killings in Colombia, or "cleanses" as they are called, were happening in the first place, but otherwise, this book is essential for kids in a time of increased need for understanding of others."
— Quill & Quire

"Hyde tells Gomez's story in a fast-faced, breezy style with lots of recreated dialogue that will appeal to young readers.
Recommended."
— CM Magazine