How to Say Goodbye in Cuban

By Daniel Miyares

A boy's life is upended by revolution and a quest for freedom.

4.3/5 Goodreads · 656 ratings

240 pages· 9,804 words· Est. 2 hour read

$21.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In the midst of the Cuban Revolution, 12-year-old Carlos faces upheaval as his father vanishes, leaving him and his family to navigate a dangerous escape to America. Torn between the only home he's known and the promise of freedom, Carlos must confront the harsh realities of a world in turmoil. Will he reunite with his father, or will the revolution's grip tighten around his dreams? This gripping memoir captures a family's courageous journey toward a new beginning.

From the publisher

Here is the dramatic coming-of-age graphic novel memoir of 12-year-old Carlos (who would grow up to become the author’s father), his life during the Cuban Revolution, and his family’s harrowing escape to America. A Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Winner - A Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table (GNCRT) Outstanding Comics Award Honor for Best Children’s Nonfiction ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: NPR, Publishers Weekly, Horn Book, School Library Journal Carlos, who lives in a small town in the Cuban countryside, loves to play baseball with his best friend, Alvaro, and to shoot home-made slingshots with his abuelo. One day, a miracle happens: Carlos’ father, his papi, wins the lottery! He uses the money to launch his own furniture business and to move the family to a big house in the city. Carlos hates having to move – hates leaving Abuelo and Alvaro behind – and hates being called country kid at his new school. But the pains of moving and middle school turn out to be the least of his problems. When rebel leader Fidel Castro overthrows the existing Cuban president, the entire country is thrust into revolution. Then, suddenly, Papi disappears. Carlos’ mother tells him that Papi has gone to America, and that they will soon join him. But Carlos really doesn’t want to leave Cuba, the only home he’s ever known. Besides, how will they get to America when Castro’s soldiers are policing their every move? Will Carlos ever see his father again? This powerful book about a boy coming of age amid massive political upheaval tells a timeless story of one family’s quest for freedom and for a new place to call home.