HOW TO SAY GOODBYE IN CUBAN

In the late 1950s, a boy’s life is turned upside down by the Cuban Revolution.

In this touching graphic memoir, Miyares depicts his father Carlos’ childhood before and during dictator Fidel Castro’s ascent to power. Affectionate interactions between Carlos and his mamá and abuelo and vibrant shades of green and blue portray the joy Carlos felt growing up in rural Ceiba Mocha. So, when his hardworking papi won the lottery and relocated the family to the city to launch his dream of owning a woodshop and selling furniture, the move was a huge adjustment for nature-loving Carlos. At school, kids teased him for being a “country kid,” but nothing compared to the fear Carlos experienced when the government was overthrown. Miyares intersperses brief, digestible political updates in black-and-white throughout, forming a stark contrast to the vivid color palette of Carlos’ daily life. Suddenly, men with guns seized Papi’s business. Food was rationed. Neighbors spied on each other to see who didn’t support the revolution—and they had their eye on Papi. Rumors abounded that those who opposed communism or Castro were being shot. Worst of all, one day Papi disappeared. But even when things were at their bleakest, Carlos and his family found hope in the possibility of making one more move—to America and freedom. The expressive art in this powerful work has a nostalgic feeling while also conveying emotional immediacy.

A heartfelt, suspenseful story about family and resilience.