All the Way to Havana
on Goodreads (1,095)
What’s inside...
Together, a boy and his parents drive to the city of Havana, Cuba, in their old family car. Along the way, they experience the sights and sounds of the streets—neighbors talking, musicians performing, and beautiful, colorful cars putt-putting and bumpety-bumping along. In the end, though, it’s their old car, Cara Cara, that the boy loves best. A joyful celebration of the Cuban people and their resourceful innovation. ALSC Notable Book
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What differences do you notice between your daily transportation and the family car trip in the book?
How do the colorful illustrations make you feel about the city of Havana?
Why do you think the family keeps repairing their old car instead of buying a new one?
What does this story teach us about the importance of family and community?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, emphasize the cultural aspect by exploring the sights and sounds of Havana as depicted in the illustrations.
Relate the story to personal family experiences, whether it’s a trip, fixing something together, or a community event, to make personal connections.
Encourage the child to think about resourcefulness and creativity by discussing how the family fixes their car with various found items.
Ask the child to imagine what they would see, hear, and feel if they were on a car trip through their own city or town, drawing parallels to the book’s journey.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: The story showcases a family's journey to the city of Havana despite challenges with their old car, emphasizing the importance of persistence and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children learn that facing obstacles with determination can lead to achieving their goals, whether it's completing a difficult school project or mastering a new skill.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for cultural heritage
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and storytelling, the book celebrates Cuban culture, its vibrant cities, and the nostalgic era of old cars, instilling a pride in heritage.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to explore and take pride in their own family backgrounds and learn about different cultures, promoting diversity and inclusion.
Example Lesson: Innovation through improvisation
Explanation: The family's car, affectionately named 'Cara Cara', often needs creative mechanical fixes, demonstrating innovation and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to think creatively in solving problems and making the most of available resources, a skill valuable in everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: The joy of shared experiences
Explanation: The book emphasizes the joy and bonding over the shared family trip, illustrating the importance of spending quality time with loved ones.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of family bonding and creating memories through common experiences, encouraging them to value and cherish time spent with family.