90 Miles to Havana Comprehension Questions

The narrator is a person who is fishing at the edge of the Gulf Stream.

The narrator's father believes that if they catch a big fish on December 31st, they will have good luck every day of the coming year.

The narrator's father has been sitting in the fighting chair almost the whole day while fishing.

The narrator and his two brothers always go fishing with their father on December 31st.

The protagonist is Julian, and he asks his father, Papi, for a turn on the fishing chair.

Julian promises to catch a big fish to cheer up his father.

Bebo advises Julian not to look at the water in order to avoid getting seasick.

Bebo uses a paper clip and a dime to adjust the engine, which results in a smooth-running engine.

Julian hopes to bring luck to his father and to have a picture taken with the fish on the dock.

Bebo's teaching style is highlighted as he explains complex concepts to Julian without underestimating him.

The family celebrates New Year's Eve on a boat, with carnival music and revelers dancing in the streets above them.

Bebo takes care of the boat and involves Julian by teaching him and letting him help with tasks.

Papi gives Julian a rule to yell if there's any nibble while fishing.

Julian demonstrates his knowledge and confidence to convince Papi.

Julian observes the engine's workings as Bebo adjusts the engine, signifying his interest and learning from Bebo.

The story showcases the family's bond, Julian's determination, and the guidance he receives from Bebo.

Julian

The rocking boat and the smell of cigar smoke

He wants to be the hero and catch the fish himself

Reeling in the fish as it puts up a strong fight

The line snaps, causing Julian to lose the fish

His friend Angelita

Alquilino

The dynamics of their friendship and the changes brought by adolescence

Julian's desire to be the hero and the pressure he feels from his family and friends

By depicting the complex emotions he experiences after losing the fish

Feeling isolated and regretful, while his friend Angelita attempts to comfort him

Losing a fish and blaming himself for not speaking up sooner when he had a nibble.

She mentions that his father goes after big fish for the thrill, not for food or luck.

Catching a fish on the last day of the year.

Seasick.

To not dwell on mistakes and to learn from them.

He skillfully navigates the boat through a dark channel with the help of El Morro's light, avoiding the cliffs.

He explains that it can be used for steering.

Gunshots.

In their best attire and exchanging jewelry for the night.

Tense due to the perceived gunshots, contradicting the usual festive nature.

His struggle with guilt.

Julian's internal struggle with guilt, his father's superstitions, and the unsettling atmosphere of New Year's Eve in Havana.

The city was unusually quiet and eerie.

Alida is overly protective of Pepe and does not allow him to engage in typical activities like riding bikes or playing baseball.

Gunshots are heard, and men with pistols appear on the dock, announcing the dictator's departure and shooting in celebration.

They witness chaotic scenes of people chanting, dancing, and throwing furniture, as part of a revolution.

They listen to an announcement that the dictator has fled the country with his family and money.

The narrator starts to feel that anything could happen at any time in the city.

The loss of the big fish caused the narrator's father to feel a sense of defeat and disappointment.

Bebo is preparing food, and the narrator plans to draw a picture of their eventful New Year's Eve.

The family members have differing reactions to the political events.

People in Havana are usually dressed in masks and silk, and there are festivities such as party hats and fireworks.

Mrs. Garcia hands out party hats while holding onto Pepe, Angelita's younger brother, who is dressed in white.

After the men leave, the father shows signs of fear as the family hurriedly leaves the scene.

Bebo's statement serves as a metaphor for the irreversible changes that occur once a significant action is taken, reflecting the theme of transformation and the inevitable consequences of making choices.

The 'new omelet' symbolizes the uncertainty and diversity of experiences that come with change. It reflects the idea that different people will react differently to new circumstances, highlighting the theme of adaptation and the varied responses to change.

Bebo's tears and subsequent reassurance convey the complexity of emotions tied to change. They highlight the mixture of anticipation, apprehension, and hope that accompanies embracing something new, emphasizing the emotional impact of transitions and the vulnerability involved in accepting change.

Alida's announcement intensifies the theme of change by introducing a significant and unexpected transformation in the characters' lives. It underscores the disruptive nature of change and its ability to alter relationships and circumstances, adding depth to the exploration of adaptation and the inevitability of change.

Julian

Throws it at a boy, hitting him in the forehead

Not to live in their shadow and to find his own game

Growing up, finding one's path, influence of siblings, personal growth, sibling relationships, individual identity

Near the beach and a house with an almond tree

Their perspectives on life and maturity

To find his own path and not to live in the shadow of his brothers

Saying that people can't get away with things in the real world

Their influence on him

That the boy could have been seriously hurt

Their implications for personal growth

Bebo, Julian, Gordo, Alquilino

due to the political situation in Cuba

it is different from previous ones

a woman in a black dress; secret hiding places in their suitcases

by refusing to give up a necklace, symbolizing resistance

guzanos (worms)

with a red paper stamp and a warning sign

a gold swallow necklace

make an exception

due to the new regulations

the changing political environment

on the daily lives of Cuban families

Long lines for basic necessities like gas, food, and at the U.S. Embassy for passports; people leaving the country due to the political situation; frustration among citizens due to the leader's lengthy speeches on TV

Lack of access to favorite TV shows and radio programs for the protagonist's mother; a missing pin and strained neighborly relations for the family

Exploring an empty house and breaking in to search for something

Join the exploration of the empty house planned by his brother and friend

Break into the house to search for something

Sneaks out to join the exploration

Homes being sealed by soldiers

The lack of access to her favorite TV shows and radio programs

The protagonist is Alida, and they search for something hidden by Pepe, who has gone missing.

They find the hidden item, a little bird, and Angelita’s necklace, which Gordo found behind a bag of rice.

Alida sneaks the bird into the kitchen, hoping to avoid getting grounded by her mother. She places the bird in a pudding dish in the cabinet where her mother always puts her rings, to be discovered later.

Alida and Alquilino pretend to be asleep while the little woman and Alida’s parents search their room.

They notice that their home is all lit up, indicating trouble.

Gordo takes the flashlight and disappears, but he returns with the hidden item, a little bird, and Angelita’s necklace, which he found behind a bag of rice.

The story ends with a sense of relief and accomplishment. Alida feels proud of their adventure and Gordo's compliment.

They find an unmade bed that still holds Pepe’s sleeping outline.

They climb into their room from a papaya tree.

Alida tries to make it seem like Gordo is in bed by arranging pillows and a baseball glove.

They notice that their home is all lit up, indicating trouble.

They find the hidden item, a little bird, and Angelita’s necklace. The next morning, Alida sneaks the bird into the kitchen, hoping to avoid getting grounded by her mother.

The airport scene and the protagonist being searched contribute to the themes of fear, uncertainty, and the oppressive atmosphere of the setting. It also adds to the tension and the sense of danger faced by the characters as they navigate the challenges of their environment.

The passage depicts the fear of being caught with a hidden item and the protagonist's internal struggle to conceal the truth. This adds to the narrative tension by creating a sense of impending discovery and the consequences of being found out.

The guard's actions and the detailed description of the search process create an atmosphere of suspense and heightened tension. The author effectively conveys the intensity of the situation through the guard's demeanor and the protagonist's internal panic.

The protagonist's attempt to appear calm and composed despite feeling scared demonstrates a form of resilience in the face of adversity. The passage portrays the theme of resilience by showing the protagonist's efforts to maintain composure under stressful circumstances.

Angelita

protect him with her life

a place where the big eat the small

the usual laughter and fun

the harsh reality

to pick tomatoes from the fields on the other side of the swamp

a difficult situation at the airport

they are playing too hard, indicating a different reality

protect him with her life

a girl named Angelita

suggesting a difficult environment

a challenging place with a lack of adult supervision

He notices a broken plate in his pocket.

The father entrusts Julian with a box of Cuban cigars.

A reminder of their disrupted life.

The family lands in Miami.

A man in a dark suit attempts to take the box of cigars from Julian.

Julian takes a moment to observe the new landscape.

His mother signals him to wait outside.

The father reassures him about past events.

Julian's brother instructs him to grab the cigars.

He takes a moment to observe the new landscape.

Julian is feeling guilty about the broken plate and the disrupted life.

A man in a dark suit attempts to take the box of cigars from Julian, causing a tense moment.

Gordo, Alquilino, and the narrator are promised two dollars on Fridays and a trip to Miami on Saturdays if they behave and get along.

The boys notice a dangerous-looking swamp and a wild, vine-covered area outside the fence and express concern about the possibility of snakes.

The dormitory is described as hospital-like, and the narrator is unimpressed by it. An older boy, Caballo, teases the narrator by calling it a 'private suite.'

The camp looks nothing like the American camps in the pictures shown to the narrator by his mother.

The camp is described as overcrowded, with over 120 kids sleeping in the same dormitory.

A boy named Pepe is found digging a hole under the fence, indicating a possible attempt to escape or explore outside the camp.

The boys are promised a small amount of money and a trip to Miami on Saturdays if they behave and get along. They express concern about the dangerous swamp and the possibility of snakes outside the camp.

The boys settle into the camp by stashing their suitcases and exploring the camp's surroundings.

The boys notice a wild, vine-covered area and a dangerous-looking swamp outside the camp, expressing concern about the possibility of snakes.

A young priest relies on older boys to maintain order in the camp, and the boys are expected to behave and get along to receive rewards such as money and a trip to Miami.

The narrator is unimpressed by the hospital-like dormitory, and an older boy named Caballo teases the narrator by calling it a 'private suite.'

The boys observe a tall chain-link fence surrounding the camp and notice a dangerous-looking swamp and a wild, vine-covered area outside, expressing concern about the possibility of snakes.

He advises that 'they are as good as dollars'.

The president, whom the narrator believes is named Kennedy and is fond of Cuban cigars.

A man named Jorge.

Bullying behavior.

The challenges and cultural clashes they faced.

Confusion, adaptation, and adjustment.

Taking off their clothes.

A booming voice.

Dives underwater.

By a mob of children.

A ten-dollar bill.

Kennedy.

Julian's decision to not make up stories in his letter to his mother reflects his moral character and honesty. Despite being prompted by his brother to make up stories to make their situation seem better, Julian chooses to only write about the truth, refusing to fabricate details about their living conditions. This demonstrates his integrity and unwillingness to deceive his mother, even in difficult circumstances.

The passage depicts Julian's interactions with his brothers and their coping mechanisms in the face of fear. Julian refrains from sharing certain unpleasant experiences with his brothers, fearing that it may provoke Gordo's temper and worsen their situation. This demonstrates their resilience and ability to navigate difficult circumstances without escalating tensions within the family.

The passage illuminates the family dynamics and the siblings' relationships. It shows Julian's attempt to protect his brothers by not sharing certain negative experiences, while also highlighting Alquilino and Gordo's collaborative efforts to outsmart Caballo. These interactions reveal a mix of protection, collaboration, and mutual understanding among the siblings as they navigate their shared living situation.

The passage illustrates the characters' actions in maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst challenging circumstances. For example, Caballo's morning routine and Alquilino's simple solution to outsmart Caballo demonstrate their efforts to create a semblance of normalcy within the camp. These actions reflect their resilience and perseverance in adapting to their environment and finding ways to maintain stability despite their circumstances.

Dolores

Denver and Chicago

Alquilino and Gordo to Denver, Julian to Chicago

Angelita, Alquilino, Gordo, and Julian

Leave

They discuss using a forged letter and are wary of handwriting scrutiny

Angelita

They are uncertain

Angelita suggests bribing Paco with Rice Krispies and needs six boxes of it for their plan

Gordo proposes that Julian and Pepe distract Dolores while he steals the cereal boxes

Uncertainty

Dolores shows off a picture with JFK and herself

Orphaned boys' futures and potential separation

Julian successfully steals twelve boxes, and Pepe also helps execute the theft

The prospect of being separated

The successful acquisition of the cereal boxes sets the group's plan in motion

That their uncle can sponsor them

To confirm their uncle's sponsorship

Distressed

Marta

Caballo

Gordo

Angelita

A past incident involving almonds

Gordo's actions and the tension at the game

Dolores and the director

Caballo

They didn't let Caballo push them around, and they stuck together against him

The group sticks together and continues singing

Gordo

The tension escalates

Gordo orchestrates a deal with a kid named Paco, using cereal boxes as bait.

The children eagerly anticipate a trip to Miami, which is decided by Caballo.

Marta criticizes the unfairness of Caballo's selection process, marking the first public objection.

The English teacher allows proficient English speakers to leave, but the protagonist stays due to his fondness for the teacher. The teacher leads the children in singing a song, which evolves into a humorous adaptation.

The protagonist recalls drawing a map and thinking about his mother. The children eagerly anticipate a trip to Miami, which is decided by Caballo.

The group must wait for Paco to type a letter and for a trip to Miami to mail the letter. Gordo and the protagonist have a secretive interaction involving twelve boxes.

The English teacher allows proficient English speakers to leave, but the protagonist stays due to his fondness for the teacher.

Gordo orchestrates a deal with a kid named Paco, using cereal boxes as bait.

Marta criticizes the unfairness of Caballo's selection process, marking the first public objection.

The children eagerly anticipate a trip to Miami, which is decided by Caballo.

The protagonist recalls drawing a map and thinking about his mother.

Marta criticizes the unfairness of Caballo's selection process, marking the first public objection.

Tomás-ade, made with oranges, limes, and sugar packets from Pirate Angel.

He hopes to make enough money to fix up his boat.

It's kept down by the river, under the highway, and it doesn't float yet.

The engine sputters, causing the Toma-Tron to jump, and tomatoes bounce out into the sun.

The group tries to operate democratically, allowing everyone to contribute ideas and voting on decisions. This approach is influenced by Dolores's belief in democratic processes in America.

The constitution written by José and Angelita is meant to establish and maintain order within the group. It is read at the beginning of every meeting and emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation.

The group's efforts to avoid suspicion, such as meeting discreetly and limiting the number of new members, affect their daily activities and decision-making. It adds a layer of complexity and tension to their interactions and planning.

She uses the analogy of handling a snake.

Dolores helps the protagonist fix the broken plate and gives him her son's drawing materials.

Dolores compares Caballo to a dictator, implying that Caballo's behavior is not acceptable.

Caballo is depicted as a bully who enjoys exerting power. His enjoyment of exerting power is indicated when a younger boy puts his dessert on Caballo's tray, showing a fear-based dynamic.

Dolores's act symbolizes the importance of support and empathy in difficult situations, as well as the impact of personal experiences in understanding others' struggles.

The theme of seeking understanding and support from others, as well as the impact of personal experiences in shaping one's empathy towards others.

The text depicts a power dynamic where Caballo exerts control over others, creating a sense of fear and the need to find ways to resist and handle his behavior.

It shows the importance of finding support and understanding in difficult situations, as well as the impact of personal experiences in shaping one's empathy towards others.

It highlights the theme of understanding and handling difficult people, emphasizing the power of knowledge and empathy in dealing with bullies.

It emphasizes the theme of seeking understanding and support from others, as well as the impact of personal experiences in shaping one's empathy towards others.

The text portrays Caballo as a menacing figure, and the protagonist and others feel the need to find ways to resist his behavior and seek support from those who understand their struggles.

The text highlights the theme of finding ways to handle and resist bullies, and it encourages seeking support and understanding from others who have faced similar struggles.

He seeks solace by drawing on a piece of paper, expressing his fear and anger

He learns from Bebo that dwelling on fear is unproductive and must focus past it

The protagonist draws himself larger and more confident, symbolizing overcoming fear

The protagonist encounters a black, thick snake climbing up a screen and is surprised by Angelita

Angelita reveals that Caballo caused the departure of the protagonist's brothers

The director values Caballo's control over the camp and disregards his wrongdoings

Angelita discloses that Caballo tried to help by warning her about the fake letter

Angelita empathizes with Caballo's loneliness, suggesting a complex dynamic

The protagonist worries about his brothers' safety in a different camp

The protagonist and Angelita ponder the challenges and loneliness of their situation

Dolores's explanation of democracy reflects a theme of power dynamics and the manipulation of ideology for personal gain within the narrative. It highlights the ways in which individuals can exploit democratic ideals to justify their actions, as seen in the protagonist's plan to carry out pranks.

The partnership between the protagonist and Angelita leads to the formation of a group planning and executing pranks, which drives the plot forward and escalates the tension in the story.

Ramón's reputation for pulling off daring pranks and his successful execution of a prank involving scaring Ernesto adds a sense of excitement and risk to the narrative. His involvement contributes to the intensification of the plan to teach someone a lesson.

The protagonist's decision to execute the plan using a screwdriver reflects a willingness to engage in potentially harmful actions and a desire for retribution. It portrays the protagonist's willingness to go to extreme lengths to carry out the plan.

The documentation of various pranks in a notebook illustrates the calculated and deliberate nature of the plan, showing a progression from simple pranks to more elaborate and potentially harmful actions.

The formation of the group, involving Angelita, Marta, and Ramón, showcases the theme of collaboration and teamwork. It reflects how individuals come together to achieve a common goal, even if the goal involves questionable actions.

The protagonist's willingness to carry out the plan and the group's involvement in executing pranks raise moral questions about the pursuit of justice and the potential harm caused by their actions. It adds complexity to the themes of morality and justice within the narrative.

The interruption of the protagonist's execution of the plan by Angelita creates suspense and tension by delaying the outcome of the plan and introducing unexpected obstacles. It adds uncertainty to the narrative.

The evolving dynamics within the group, including the addition of new members and the collaboration in planning pranks, reflects shifting relationships and alliances. It showcases the impact of the plan on the characters' interactions and connections.

The potential consequences of carrying out the plan and the ethical dilemmas presented raise questions about the characters' choices and the impact of their actions. It highlights the moral complexity of the narrative.

The protagonist's initial reluctance or willingness to carry out the plan demonstrates internal conflict and character development, revealing the protagonist's struggle with moral decisions and the potential for personal growth or moral regression.

The protagonist's decision to use a screwdriver to teach someone a lesson raises questions about power, control, and the consequences of seeking retribution. It adds depth to the thematic exploration of justice and morality in the narrative.

Julian impresses Tomás by fixing a truck's carburetor using a dime. As a result, Tomás invites him to work on his boat.

Julian and his friends encounter Caballo at the tomato fields, who demands money for breaking camp rules. This confrontation causes Julian to feel trapped and angry.

Angelita pays the fine for Julian, which leads him to feel determined to retaliate against Caballo. Ultimately, Angelita resolves the situation by paying the fine.

Julian feels regretful and vulnerable upon discovering that his brothers Alquilino and Gordo have disappeared. He reacts with a sense of regret and vulnerability.

Julian confronts Caballo but is physically overpowered and threatened. Caballo warns Julian not to defy him again, exerting physical dominance and intimidation.

Julian impresses Tomás by fixing a truck's carburetor using a dime, which leads to an invitation for Julian to work on Tomás's boat.

Julian feels determined to retaliate against Caballo after Angelita pays the fine for him. Ultimately, Angelita resolves the situation by paying the fine.

Julian feels regretful and vulnerable upon discovering that his brothers Alquilino and Gordo have disappeared, experiencing a sense of regret and vulnerability.

Caballo warns Julian not to defy him again, exerting physical dominance and intimidation during their confrontation.

Julian's refusal to pay the money demanded by Caballo leads to a confrontation, and Caballo responds by physically overpowering and threatening Julian.

Angelita's intervention, by paying the fine for Julian, leads him to feel determined to retaliate against Caballo. Ultimately, her action resolves the situation with Caballo.

The driver warns the group to stay together and stay away from Laundromats in Miami because some Americans have a strange sense of humor. He gives this warning based on stories he has heard about children being put in dryers by Americans for amusement.

As the group arrives in Miami, the driver raises one bushy eyebrow and reminds them to stay together and stay away from Laundromats. This action reflects his cautious and protective nature, as he is concerned for the safety of the group.

The narrator realizes that the driver has another run to the airport right after their current trip, indicating a heavy workload. She attempts to help by reading out the list of names and making a comment about the driver's busy schedule, showing her awareness and consideration for his responsibilities.

As the group arrives in Miami, the driver tells stories about children who were not careful during their visit. He chuckles at the story of children being put in a dryer by Americans. This reflects his tendency to use humor to convey warnings and his lighthearted approach to addressing potential dangers.

Angelita unexpectedly appears and rescues Julian after he contemplates jumping into the river to retrieve his suitcase. This act of rescue and retrieval helps to mend their relationship and demonstrates Angelita's care and concern for Julian.

Angelita unfolds the map, and the X signifies the location where Tomás gets free sugar at Pirate Angel's.

Doctor Alejandro De La Vega is a surgeon from Havana, now working as a dishwasher to support his children in the United States.

Julian misunderstands the intentions of the guys at the bridge, thinking they were going to harm him. However, Angelita and the guys clarify that they meant no harm, and Angelita scolds Julian for his misunderstanding.

Julian expresses his surprise to Angelita and his disappointment that she didn't accompany him. This reveals Julian's desire for companionship and support during his difficult journey.

He is studying at night to pass the required tests to practice medicine in the US, and he emphasizes the heartbreak of parents sending their children away.

Doctor De La Vega mentions Tomás's involvement in preparing the camp for Pedro Pan kids, and Dolores is the cook at the camp.

Julian leaves Angelita due to his own unresolved emotions about his past, indicating his internal struggles and the impact on his relationships.

Doctor De La Vega acknowledges the challenges faced by the protagonist and Angelita, empathizing with the difficulty of being separated from their parents.

The encounter at the bridge, where Angelita unexpectedly appears to rescue Julian, highlights the theme of unexpected assistance and support, showing how characters can come to each other's aid in surprising ways.

The doctor gives Angelita a bag of sandwiches and sugar packets and tells her to find Tomás down the road, emphasizing the characters' reliance on each other and the interconnectedness of their journeys.

The text highlights the resilience and sacrifices of individuals like Doctor De La Vega who come to the US seeking a better life.

Angelita points out that Tomás lives nearby, and the waitress notices Tomás's handwriting on Angelita's map.

The encounter at the bridge, where Julian contemplates jumping into the river and expresses his disappointment to Angelita, symbolizes his internal struggle and emotional turmoil, highlighting the depth of his feelings and his need for support.

His Cuban medical license is not valid in the United States.

Julian is determined to find Tomás and starts walking towards the bridge, demonstrating his strong determination and resolve to accomplish his goal despite the challenges he faces.

The primary reason for Doctor De La Vega's presence in the United States is to pursue a better life, and he expresses gratitude for being in the US despite the hardships.

When Julian's suitcase falls into the muddy water, he considers jumping after it, showing the emotional impact of the loss and reflecting his attachment to his belongings as he navigates his journey.

Angelita gives Julian her map at the bus stop, indicating she won't be joining him, which contributes to the development of her character as independent and determined to pursue her own path despite the circumstances.

Doctor De La Vega shares that he came with his children, and he is studying at night to pass the required tests to practice medicine in the US.

The encounter at the bridge plays a significant role in the characters' evolving relationships, highlighting the theme of mutual understanding as they clarify misunderstandings and demonstrate care and support for each other.

Angelita is memorizing street names to avoid getting lost, and they observe the city's hustle and bustle while walking through a busy street.

Julian's encounter with the guys at the bridge reflects the theme of misjudgment and the impact of assumptions, as he initially misinterprets their intentions and later realizes his mistake through the clarification from Angelita and the guys.

Pirate Angel's is a place where Tomás gets free sugar, and Angelita points out that Tomás lives nearby.

by the river

wrecked cars, old tires, sleepy turtles

Right of Salvage

rusty engine

navigational charts and a brass compass

returning to the camp

bravery

support and understanding

a man named Dog

the boat

dinner

returning to the camp

Tomás started the engine of a motor launch and sailed towards Florida without informing anyone, demonstrating his determination and courage.

Angelita expressed surprise at Tomás's sudden departure without saying goodbye to his mother, highlighting the emotional toll of leaving loved ones behind.

Tomás found a change of clothes and some dollars in a locker below, emphasizing the impromptu nature of his escape.

Tomás offered Julian a place to stay and tasked him with stirring the beans, showing his hospitality and willingness to help others.

Julian felt abandoned and lonely after Angelita's departure, but he resolved to keep himself occupied to avoid dwelling on his emotions.

Julian encountered a hostile gatekeeper at the Fontainebleau Hotel, contributing to a sense of unfamiliarity and rejection.

The characters faced emotional and physical challenges during their escapes from Cuba and attempted to adapt to new environments by demonstrating determination, coping with loneliness, and dealing with unfamiliar and unwelcoming situations.

Julian reassured himself by resolving to keep occupied and avoid dwelling on his emotions, indicating his determination to cope with the situation.

Julian experienced a sense of unfamiliarity and rejection upon encountering a hostile gatekeeper at the hotel, contributing to the development of the story's atmosphere.

The text conveys the characters' attempts to adapt to new environments by demonstrating resilience, coping with loneliness, and dealing with unfamiliar and unwelcoming situations, reflecting their resilience and determination.

Tomás's impulsive departure contrasted with Angelita's more deliberate decision to leave, illustrating the different approaches to leaving.

Tomás's father secretly supported his escape by orchestrating the motor launch trip to Florida, revealing his support for Tomás and their close relationship.

Julian is trying to call his parents, and he wants to speak to his mother or father.

The woman refers to Julian's parents as 'gusanos,' and this reveals a negative and contemptuous attitude towards them.

The woman tells Julian that his parents don't live there anymore, and she responds to his request for a telephone number by giving unclear and possibly irrelevant directions.

Julian faces difficulty understanding the woman's words, and background noise from someone hammering away makes it hard for him to hear her clearly.

The narrator sets up a table to sell Tomás-ade on a street in Havana

The narrator goes to a department store and buys colored chalks

Officer Ramirez confronts the narrator

The narrator draws a horse and rider

The narrator gives a false name

The narrator worries that no matter what name he gives, Ramirez will eventually find him

His next move

Make some money for himself and Tomás

Tomás

Connecting the red wires

Trust, suspicion, and the protagonist's growing unease with Dog's behavior and appearance

Against the backdrop of a boat engine repair

Tomás may not be as discerning about people as he is about machines

The dynamics of trust and suspicion between the characters

The protagonist's observations and concerns about Dog's trustworthiness and wolf-like characteristics

The protagonist's internal struggle and the dynamics of trust and suspicion between the characters

The fact that Tomás trusts Dog despite the protagonist's suspicions and concerns

They add tension and mystery to the narrative

Julian

monkey man

Bebo

about Mami's little bird in Reglas and the need to take the first ferry on the twelfth

Tomás

his phone call

tension

complex relationships

Julian's emotional turmoil

unease and anticipation

the challenges they face

the potential consequences of his message and the uncertainty of the situation with his family

The protagonist overhears a woman searching for buried money and tries to use this information to find his missing parents.

He eventually lies about the money's location in exchange for information about his parents, but the woman doesn't know where they are.

The protagonist decides to search for his parents on his own and starts calling the numbers in a notebook his mother left for him.

He attempts to avoid revealing the truth to a man named Tomás, fearing he might lose his place on Tomás's boat.

The protagonist dreams about his parents and struggles with the inability to control his dreams, seeking distraction by staying busy.

The protagonist prepares to sell 'Tomás-ade' with Tomás to make money, and Tomás helps him with the logistics of transporting the product.

The protagonist encounters suspicious individuals in a dark sedan while transporting the 'Tomás-ade' to the bus stop, which makes him paranoid and suspect that a person named Ramirez is looking for him.

The protagonist is worried about being found out and takes precautions to avoid being followed. He believes that Angelita has potentially revealed his location to Ramirez.

The protagonist carefully assesses his surroundings for any signs of danger before disembarking from the bus and remains vigilant and cautious.

He becomes paranoid, suspecting that a person named Ramirez is looking for him, and tries to evade detection while boarding the bus. He is worried about being found out and takes precautions to avoid being followed.

The protagonist becomes paranoid and worried about being found out after encountering suspicious individuals while transporting the 'Tomás-ade', and he takes precautions to avoid being followed.

The protagonist feels worried and cautious as he carefully assesses his surroundings for any signs of danger before disembarking from the bus, and he remains vigilant and cautious before continuing his journey.

Armando wanted to make himself look good and hoped to get a job as a newsman.

Tomás views Armando as strutting around like a hero, but compares him to a big rooster and implies that his actions were self-serving.

Tomás acknowledges that the protagonist's help with the engine and the gold bird were crucial in making the trip, and appreciates that the protagonist acted out of a sense of doing the right thing.

The protagonist denies being a hero and expresses a desire to just go home, but is reminded by Ramirez that there are people who see them as heroes.

Mr. Mooney announces arrival at Connect-Y-Cut, a neighborhood of identical houses with different colors.

Julian reunites with a woman in his uncle's living room, realizing she is his mother.

Julian's mother discovers a broken plate in his suitcase, a gift to his father, and becomes emotional.

Julian reveals he traded a valuable possession for money to help people escape, causing his mother to break down.

Julian hopes she will understand his actions if she knew the gratitude of the people he helped.

The text explores Julian's internal and external conflicts upon returning home and his mother's lack of understanding.

The story portrays the challenges of communication and acceptance within a family, showcasing Julian's unacknowledged sacrifice for others.

The protagonist feels the clothes won't help him fit in and that they make him stand out, contributing to his sense of feeling out of place.

Gordo warns the protagonist about potential trouble and offers to take care of it.

The protagonist resists fighting until he realizes the bully's fear, which leads to a scuffle ensuing.

A teacher intervenes, leading to a misunderstanding about the protagonist's name and a lecture on fighting.

The teacher plans to send him for a hearing test and introduces him to the class as 'Julie-Ann' from the tropical island of Cuba, although the protagonist tries to correct the teacher's mispronunciation of his name.

The protagonist feels the clothes won't help him fit in and contribute to his sense of feeling out of place at the schoolyard due to his distinctive clothing.

Gordo offers to take care of potential trouble and warns the protagonist about it.

The protagonist resists fighting until he realizes the bully's fear, which leads to a scuffle ensuing.

A teacher intervenes, leading to a misunderstanding about the protagonist's name and a lecture on fighting.

The teacher plans to send him for a hearing test and introduces him to the class as 'Julie-Ann' from the tropical island of Cuba, although the protagonist tries to correct the teacher's mispronunciation of his name.

The protagonist feels the clothes won't help him fit in and contribute to his sense of feeling out of place at the schoolyard due to his distinctive clothing.

Gordo offers to take care of potential trouble and warns the protagonist about it.

The main character is Who-li-an. She faces ridicule for being from a tropical island, ignorant and hurtful questions about her home country, and struggles with understanding and engaging with the English language being taught in the new school.

She finds solace in drawing, which helps her cope with her feelings of alienation.

Mrs. Johnson shows genuine interest in Who-li-an's drawings and her story about life in Cuba, encourages Who-li-an to share her story with the class, and plans to have Who-li-an share her story with the class the next day, demonstrating understanding and compassion.

Mrs. Johnson's involvement emphasizes the impact of a compassionate teacher in helping a student feel valued and accepted, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in a new environment.

The narrative highlights the challenges of cultural adjustment and the importance of empathy and understanding in a new environment.

Who-li-an feels validated and appreciated by Mrs. Johnson's interest in her experiences.

The character daydreams about her life in Cuba, feeling a strong sense of belonging and purpose there, signifying her longing for connection and understanding.

Drawing serves as a coping mechanism for Who-li-an, helping her cope with her feelings of alienation.

The story ends with Mrs. Johnson planning to have Who-li-an share her story with the class the next day, implying a positive shift in Who-li-an's experience at the new school.

The story emphasizes the impact of a compassionate teacher in helping a student feel valued and accepted, showcasing the importance of empathy and understanding in a new environment.

Who-li-an struggles to understand and engage with the English language being taught in the new school, and copes with her feelings of alienation through drawing.

The narrative highlights the challenges of cultural adjustment, the importance of empathy and understanding in a new environment, and the impact of a compassionate teacher in helping a student feel valued and accepted.

Dolores, the cook

They send letters to the protagonist

Ramirez, a familiar face

Flying alone to Connecticut

Mr. Mooney

Consisting of identical, unfinished houses

Hopes they are reunited with their families

New kids

Describing the challenges and dangers they face at the orphanage

Girls weaving palm hats

Travels to Connecticut

Wonders about their fate