Book details
My Havana: Memories of a Cuban Boyhood
Description
A young Cuban immigrant eases his homesickness by re-creating the city of Havana in a poignant tale that will resonate with readers today."You're always drawing in that notebook of yours," Dino's friend teases. To the small boy, 1950s Havana is alive with color, music, and glamour, and he itches to capture it on paper. When Fidel Castro and the Communist Party take over the Cuban government, Dino's family must move to New York, where the lonely boy pours his heart into making a model of Havana's archways and balconies, buildings and streets. Rosemary Wells composes a tender ode to an immigrant boy who grew up to be a U.S. architect, while Peter Ferguson's atmospheric paintings evoke two vibrant cities as they were half a century ago.Back matter includes an author's note.
Age
7-10
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
72 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'My Havana: Memories of a Cuban Boyhood' offers readers an intimate glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Cuba during the 1950s. It provides a unique perspective on the life, traditions, and atmosphere of Havana before the Cuban Revolution, allowing readers to appreciate and understand a pivotal time in Cuban history.
- Personal Growth: The memoir recounts the author's formative years, highlighting themes of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of creativity. Readers can draw inspiration from the author's experiences and apply the lessons of perseverance and passion to their own lives.
- Historical Context: This book serves as an important piece of historical literature, documenting the personal impact of significant political events. It offers a personal connection to the broader historical narrative of Cuba, providing context to the events that shaped the nation and its people.
- Artistic Inspiration: Rosemary Wells' recounting of her childhood is interwoven with her development as an artist. Readers interested in art and architecture will find the descriptions of Havana's landscapes and the author's artistic endeavors particularly inspiring, potentially igniting their own creative passions.