Book details
The Red Umbrella
Description
The Red Umbrella is the moving tale of a 14-year-old girl's journey from Cuba to America as part of Operation Pedro Panan organized exodus of more than 14,000 unaccompanied children, whose parents sent them away to escape Fidel Castro's revolution.In 1961, two years after the Communist revolution, Luca lvarez still leads a carefree life, dreaming of parties and her first crush. But when the soldiers come to her sleepy Cuban town, everything begins to change. Freedoms are stripped away. Neighbors disappear. Her friends feel like strangers. And her family is being watched.As the revolution's impact becomes more oppressive, Luca's parents make the heart-wrenching decision to send her and her little brother to the United Stateson their own.Suddenly plunked down in Nebraska with well-meaning strangers, Luca struggles to adapt to a new country, a new language, a new way of life. But what of her old life? Will she ever see her home or her parents again? And if she does, will she still be the same girl?The Red Umbrella is a moving story of country, culture, family, and the true meaning of home.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
10-13
Text complexity
developing
Length
240 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'The Red Umbrella' provides readers with a deep understanding of the Cuban culture and the impact of political turmoil during the 1960s. It offers a personal perspective on the struggles faced by families during the Cuban Revolution and the Operation Pedro Pan, which can enrich one's knowledge about this historical period.
- Emotional Connection: Christina Gonzalez crafts a compelling narrative that allows readers to connect emotionally with the characters, especially the protagonist, Lucia. Through her journey, readers experience the challenges of being uprooted from one's homeland and the resilience required to adapt to a new life.
- Historical Education: The novel serves as an educational tool, shedding light on a lesser-known event in history. It provides context and background to the exodus of over 14,000 unaccompanied Cuban minors to the United States, making it a valuable resource for both young adults and adults interested in historical events.
- Themes of Growth and Identity: 'The Red Umbrella' explores themes of personal growth, identity, and the meaning of family. As readers follow Lucia's transformation from a carefree teenager to a mature individual, they can reflect on their own experiences with change and the universal quest for self-discovery.