Reviewed by Neva Sliman, grade 6, Whitefish Middle School
In Cuba, Esther and her father make new friends, overcome challenges, and meet new kinds of people, some of who are determined to cause them trouble. Will their determination be enough to same them? Will they get their family out in time to save them?
This historical fiction book really brings the different attributes people can have into light. Ruth Behar describes what life would have been like as a little girl struggling to survive. Using imagery and incredible descriptive language, she helps readers understand what she is trying to say in a way people can understand.
My favorite character is Esther. Esther is a hardworking, intelligent, kind girl who is good at speaking up for what she believes in. Esther is not afraid to do dangerous things to protect her family. This shows Esther has undying loyalty to her family and friends. Another reason Ilike Esther is that I can relate to her in many different ways. My favorite thing about the book is that the author, Ruth Behar, illustrates what it would be like to be a Jewish immigrant in a bad situation. She makes everything very clear, and she uses excellent language.
After reading Letters From Cuba, I highly recommend it to anybody that likes historical fiction. It is a real page-turner and I have read it more than any other books. It is more for intermediate readers than advanced. Overall I rate this book ten out of ten. It is currently my favorite book.
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