First published 1998
Reina Aguero works as an electrician in revolutionary Cuba, her hands skilled with wire and voltage. Her sister Constancia fled the island three decades ago, crossing to the United States where she rebuilt herself as an American. The sisters have not spoken since Constancia's secret departure. Now they move toward each other across years of silence and an ocean of difference. Reina remains loyal to the revolution that shaped her homeland. Constancia has wrapped herself in her adopted country's customs and language. As the sisters prepare to meet, their separate stories emerge alongside the history of their scientist parents. Each woman carries different memories of the same family. Each has chosen a different way to belong somewhere. Their reunion will force them to examine who they became and why they grew apart. Garcia weaves together personal histories and family myths to explore how identity forms and fractures across generations and borders.
Genres: literary-fiction, american-fiction, historical-fiction, 20th-century, 21st-century, family-drama
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: estranged-siblings, found-family
Setting: Cuba, United States
Period: 20th Century, 21st Century
Library Binding · Paw Prints 2008-06-26