91 pages • 3 hours read
The Red Umbrella
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010
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Introduction
The Red Umbrella
- Genre: Middle grade historical fiction
- Originally Published: 2010
- Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 590L; grades 3-7
- Structure/Length: 37 chapters; approx. 284 pages; approx. 7 hours, 13 minutes on audio
- Protagonist and Central Conflict: In 1961, following the Cuban Revolution, teenage protagonist Lucia Alvarez and her brother Frankie are sent by their parents to the United States from Cuba during a mass exodus now known as Pedro Pan. After landing in Nebraska, Lucia struggles to adapt to a new culture and way of life.
- Potential Sensitivity Issues: War; violence
Christina Diaz Gonzalez, Author
- Bio: Author of several award-winning novels; lives with her family in Miami, Florida; was a lawyer for many years before becoming a writer; based this novel on her immigrant parents’ experiences
- Other Works: Concealed (2021); Moving Target (2015); A Thunderous Whisper (2012)
- Awards: ALA Best Books for Young Adults (2011); ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers; Top Ten Indie Next Book; International Reading Association – Teacher’s Choice Book
CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Unit:
- Loss of Innocence and Coming of Age
- The Conflict Between Cuba and the US
- Effects of Politics on Relationships
STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Unit, students will:
- Develop their understanding of Cuba, the Cuban Revolution, and the history of The Conflict Between Cuba and the US.
