Next Year In Havana

Over the course of the novel, Marisol changes her perspective on her own identity. Discuss these changes and what motivates them.

Although Next Year in Havana is a historical novel, romances serve as important elements of the plot. How do these romantic pairings help advance the plot and develop the themes? Does the novel feel more like a romance or more like a historical novel? Does Cleeton successfully integrate the historical details with the narrative?

Compare and contrast Marisol’s vision of Cuba before, during, and after her trip to Cuba.

Consider Pablo’s character arc. He transforms from a passionate revolutionary to a patient bureaucrat. Do you agree with his assessment that slow and steady reform is a more useful approach than revolution? Support your discussion with evidence from the novel and history.

Every family has a personality, and that is particularly the case for the Perez family. What are the defining traits of the Perezes? How does that identity change over time? What causes these changes? How do Marisol and Elisa’s conception of that family identity shape their own identities?

Research the Cuban Revolution and Cuban-American politics in Florida, especially the period following the Perez family’s departure from Cuba. How accurately do you think Cleeton’s representation of Marisol’s generation reflects modern Cuban-American politics?

Research changing American policy on asylum for Cubans. How does this policy shape the departures (and returns) of the Perez family, Cristina, and Marisol?

Luis criticizes the governments packaging of Havana for tourist consumption. Why does he dislike the tourism industry in Cuba? Review promotional materials on travel to Cuba for yourself. Do you agree with his perspective?