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.