Leaving Glorytown

Starred review from June 1, 2009
Gr 7-10-Calcines's spirited memoir captures the political tension, economic hardship, family stress, and personal anxiety of growing up during the early years of the Castro regime in Cuba. From age 3 when the Communist revolution began in 1959 until his long-awaited exodus to the United States at age 14, the author shares startling, clear memories about his life in the Glorytown barrio of Cienfuegos. Soldiers appeared on street corners; his prosperous uncle and beloved father were arrested as traitors; food was rationed; and Communist mandates tore apart families and friendships. In the midst of this turmoil, Eduardo's youthful interest in girls, escapades and arguments with best friends, close relationship with his grandparents, defiant outbursts, and dreams of America defined his daily life. When his parents' exit visa application was at last approved, he bid a wrenching farewell to his extended family and homeland before boarding the plane to Miami. Although he left 40 years ago, Calcines writes about Cuba with immediacy, nostalgia, and passion. This personal account will acquaint readers with the oppressive and ironic effects of communism. Although social and economic equality and security were Communist goals in Cuba, economic deprivation and political intimidation became the reality for Eduardo and many others. Current speculation on Castro's successor and Cuba's future enhance the book's timeliness and significance."Gerry Larson, Durham School of the Arts, NC"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 1, 2009
Grades 7-10 Calcines grandmother told him that the world forgot the Cuban people after Fidel Castro took power, and for many Americans today that is still true. This is a rare look at Cuban life from1959 to 1969, when Calcines family managed to emigrate.The authorwas born into an exuberant extended family whose enjoyable lives changed abruptly after the revolution. Food became scarce, jobs disappeared, and harsh restrictions were imposed. Eventually, Calcines parents made the difficult choice to apply for a visa to America. From then on, lifebecame a daily nightmare. Eduardos father was sent to a prison work camp, and the family was bullied and humiliated and feared for their lives as they waited.Calcines vibrant writing gives readers an intimate, front-porch view of his family. The wisely chosen vignettesare bothhumorous andstark, as ina story of five teens sharing a single stick of gum. Another episode about a teachers brutalityis immediate and vivid. Calcines book will captivate readers and open a doorto a subject seldom written about for teens.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)