My Havana by Rosemary Wells with Secundino Fernández presents “fascinating personal portrait of historic events.” Illustrated by Peter Ferguson. Candlewick, $17.99. For ages 9 and up. Here’s a brief review from the Star-Telegraph.
What it’s about: The story, based on the co-author’s youth, offers a short peek into the Cuban society that existed before Fidel Castro’s 1959 takeover. Secundino, a bookish artist, begins his story in 1952, when he was 4 years old, the son of Cuban restaurateurs. In 1956, a family emergency briefly takes Secundino and his parents to Spain, then under the thumb of dictator Generalissimo Francisco Franco. Returning to Havana, Secundino’s father is bullied by thugs associated with Cuban President Fulgencio Batista.
Two years later, Castro kicks Batista out of office, and Castro’s pal, Che Guevara, announces that Cuba will redistribute the national wealth evenly among all citizens. When Secundino’s father loses his restaurant and his home, it’s time for another move.
Why read it: It’s a compact, whirlwind political tour that introduces young readers to some major historical figures.
For the original review go to Read more: http://www.star-telegram.com/2011/01/25/2796221/read-it-my-havana-presents-fascinating.html#tvg#ixzz1C67fXFzX
Wonderful concept for introducing politics and history to young children.
By: New World Nubian on January 29, 2011
at 6:32 am