One-line summary:
Next Year in Havana is a captivating historical fiction novel that intertwines the stories of two women, one in 1950s Cuba and the other in present-day Miami, as they navigate love, loss, and the complexities of their Cuban heritage.
The Story:
Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton follows the lives of two women, Elisa Perez and Marisol Ferrera, as they navigate their Cuban heritage and the political turmoil that surrounds their lives. The story alternates between Elisa’s experiences in 1958 Havana and Marisol’s journey in present-day Miami.
Elisa Perez, a member of Havana’s high society, falls in love with a revolutionary named Pablo during the last days of the Batista regime. As Fidel Castro’s forces gain power, Elisa’s family is forced to flee to the United States, leaving behind their beloved Cuba. Elisa’s story is filled with passion, heartbreak, and the struggle to hold onto her identity amidst the chaos of revolution.
In the present day, Marisol Ferrera, Elisa’s granddaughter, travels to Havana to scatter her grandmother’s ashes and uncover the secrets of her family’s past. Marisol is drawn to the vibrant culture and history of Cuba, but she also faces the challenges of a country still grappling with its political and social changes. As Marisol delves deeper into her family’s history, she uncovers long-held secrets that shed light on her own identity and the sacrifices made by those who came before her.
The Themes:
Love and Loss: Next Year in Havana explores the profound impact of love and loss on both Elisa and Marisol. Elisa’s forbidden love for Pablo and the subsequent loss of her home and family shape her life, while Marisol grapples with the loss of her grandmother and the longing to connect with her Cuban roots.
Identity and Heritage: The novel delves into the complexities of identity and heritage, as both Elisa and Marisol struggle to reconcile their Cuban heritage with their American upbringing. They grapple with questions of belonging, cultural identity, and the weight of family history.
Political Turmoil: Set against the backdrop of the Cuban Revolution, Next Year in Havana explores the political turmoil and its impact on the lives of ordinary people. The novel sheds light on the realities of living under a dictatorship, the sacrifices made for freedom, and the lasting effects of political upheaval.
Key Takeaways:
- Love and loss shape our lives and influence our decisions.
- Our heritage and cultural identity play a significant role in shaping who we are.
- Political turmoil can have far-reaching consequences on individuals and families.
- Family secrets can hold the key to understanding our own identities.
A Memorable Quote:
“We are the stories we tell ourselves, the tales we spin, the myths we create. We are the faith we have in ourselves, the confidence we have in our abilities, and the trust we place in our decisions.” – Chanel Cleeton, Next Year in Havana
Next Year in Havana is a captivating and emotional journey that explores the power of love, the complexities of identity, and the lasting impact of political turmoil. Through the intertwining stories of Elisa and Marisol, readers are transported to the vibrant streets of Havana and the struggles faced by those caught in the midst of revolution. With its rich historical backdrop and compelling characters, this novel is a must-read for anyone interested in Cuban history, family dynamics, and the search for one’s true self.
