Dreaming in Cuban : Book Review

"Dreaming in Cuban" by Cristina García is a captivating novel that takes readers on a heartfelt journey, exploring the lives of three generations of Cuban women and their profound experiences with love, loss, and the profound impact of the Cuban revolution.

The story is skillfully narrated through the perspectives of Celia, Lourdes, and Felicia, three fascinating and complex women, each grappling with their own unique struggles, identities, and heritage.

Celia, the strong and determined matriarch of the family, embodies a fierce love and devotion for her homeland, Cuba. García's vivid imagery and lyrical prose beautifully capture the essence of the island, immersing readers in the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of the Cuban culture. As Celia reflects upon her past and cherished memories, readers are transported into a world filled with both breathtaking beauty and profound turmoil.

Lourdes, Celia's daughter, embarks on a journey to the United States, seeking a fresh start and desperate to build a new life. However, remnants of her past and the deep longing for her homeland persistently haunt her, causing her to grapple with the unyielding challenge of reconciling her Cuban roots with her American identity. García masterfully delves into the complexities of the immigrant experience, shedding light on the struggles faced by individuals torn between two cultures.

Felicia, Lourdes' daughter, finds herself torn between the expectations imposed upon her by her mother and her own personal desires. In her quest for self-discovery, she fearlessly embraces her sexuality, becoming a symbol of hope and liberation. García skillfully explores the themes of self-acceptance and the transformative power of embracing one's true identity and desires.

What are readers saying?

"Dreaming in Cuban" by Cristina García has garnered a mixed reception among readers. Some commend the book for its lyrical writing style, in-depth exploration of Cuban history and culture, and the intricacies of its characters. Others, however, find the fragmented narrative and absence of a clear plot structure confusing and frustrating.

One reviewer praises García for her beautiful and evocative prose, describing it as poetic and striking. They appreciate her ability to vividly depict the vibrant atmosphere of Cuba, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the country's rich historical and cultural backdrop. Furthermore, they laud the author's skill in delving into the characters' inner thoughts and emotions, which adds depth and authenticity to the story.

Another reviewer values García's portrayal of complex family dynamics in the novel. They feel that the characters are well-developed and true to life, as their strengths and flaws contribute to the story's depth. In particular, the nuanced and sensitive exploration of the relationships between mothers and daughters is highlighted as a noteworthy aspect of the book.

However, some readers found the fragmented narrative and lack of a clear plot structure to be challenging. One reviewer mentions that the story frequently shifts between different perspectives and timelines, leading to confusion. Consequently, they argue that it becomes difficult to fully engage with the plot and connect with the characters.

Another reviewer expresses disappointment with the lack of resolution in the story. They assert that while the narrative builds up intriguing plotlines, it ultimately fails to deliver satisfying conclusions. This aspect of the novel left them feeling unsatisfied and desiring more closure.

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