Cuba - The People (Lands, Peoples & Cultures)
Lands, peoples, and cultures series
on Goodreads (3)
What’s inside...
This work is intended for children aged 9-14 years and provides an insightful exploration into the lives of the Cuban people. It examines the cultural and ancestral roots tracing back to the Taino people, West Africans, and Spaniards, among other immigrant groups such as Haitians and French-speakers. The book delves into the everyday lives of Cubans both in bustling cities and rural areas, illustrating themes of poverty, work under a communist regime, educational pursuits, and the tourism industry. Candid photographs complement the narrative, offering a vivid depiction of contemporary Cuban life.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some unique aspects of Cuban culture you learned from this book?
How does the daily life of a child in Cuba compare to yours?
What are some ways the Cuban people celebrate their traditions and holidays?
How do you think the geography of Cuba influences the lifestyles of its people?
What did you find most surprising or interesting about the people of Cuba?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book to set a conversational tone. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about what they read, making sure to listen actively. Ask them to draw parallels between their life and the lives of children in Cuba. This will help them relate personally to the content. Finally, use the book’s illustrations and photographs to further engage and visually prompt discussion about the culture and people of Cuba.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: The book delves into the rich history and vibrant traditions of Cuba, allowing children to explore a culture different from their own.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to respect and value diverse cultures, enhancing their global awareness and social inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Historical Awareness
Explanation: Susan Hughes presents an engaging overview of Cuba’s past, illustrating the events that have shaped its current culture and society.
Real-World Application: Assists children in understanding the importance of history in shaping societies, fostering a sense of curiosity and respect for historical events in their own and others' lives.
Example Lesson: Geographical Knowledge
Explanation: The book provides detailed information about Cuba’s geography, including its location, climate, and natural resources.
Real-World Application: This can ignite an interest in geography and environmental studies, helping children understand the relationship between natural environments and the cultures that thrive in them.
Example Lesson: Economic Understanding
Explanation: Children are introduced to the concept of different economic systems through the discussion of Cuba’s economy.
Real-World Application: Encourages critical thinking about how economies function and the impact of various economic structures on a country’s citizens.
Example Lesson: Community and Identity
Explanation: By exploring Cuban community life and social structures, children learn about the elements that forge communal and personal identities.
Real-World Application: Helps children appreciate the role of community in personal development and encourages them to contribute positively to their own communities.