Dreaming in Cuban

How do Celia’s ideological beliefs prevent her from becoming a strong maternal figure for her children, and how does she rectify this early mistake in her later years?

Consider the various ways in which the motif of El Líder is described in the novel. Choose at least three to four passages, and analyze how the narrative’s tone implies the various speakers’ attitudes toward this prominent political figure.

How is Pilar’s sense of rebellion reflected in her art and her tastes in fashion? How do these aspects of her character influence (or contradict) her desire to learn more about her Cuban heritage?

Discuss the novel’s use of magical realism. How does this stylistic choice add to the story and illustrate key themes? Use specific examples from the text to support your interpretation.

Contrast the cultural implications of Cuba, Miami, and New York, and examine the ways in which the author strives to incorporate key historical references into the plot of the novel.

How does the novel’s representation of religion and spirituality reflect a larger implicit discussion about the relationship between individual convictions and cultural identity?

Discuss the novel’s representations of disparate political ideologies. How do broader concepts impact and shape individual lives? Select and analyze the lives of at least three characters to support your analysis.

Compare and contrast two specific characters, focusing on the ways in which they fail to serve as ideal maternal figures. What precipitates their failure, and how do they try to make amends for their mistakes?