Book details
Tropical Secrets: Holocaust Refugees in Cuba
Description
Escaping from Nazi Germany to Cuba in 1939, a young Jewish refugee dreams of finding his parents again, befriends a local girl with painful secrets of her own, and discovers that the. Nazi darkness is never far away.
Age
12-18
Text complexity
advanced
Length
208 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: 'Tropical Secrets: Holocaust Refugees in Cuba' offers readers a unique perspective on the lesser-known history of Jewish refugees in Cuba during World War II, providing a deeper understanding of the Holocaust's global impact.
- Cultural Understanding: The book explores the complex cultural interactions between the Jewish refugees and the diverse Cuban society of the time, highlighting themes of acceptance, prejudice, and friendship in a multicultural context.
- Poetic Narrative: Written by Margarita Engle, the first Latina to receive a Newbery Honor, the book is told in free verse, offering a lyrical and emotionally resonant reading experience that enhances the storytelling and characters' emotional journeys.
- Human Resilience and Hope: Through its portrayal of young refugees and their struggles, the book serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring hope for a better future, even in the darkest of times.