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90 Miles to Havana

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

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Book Brief

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Enrique Flores-Galbis

90 Miles to Havana

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cuba And Florida • 1960s

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

790L

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Super Short Summary

In 90 Miles to Havana by Enrique Flores-Galbis, Julian and his two older brothers, Gordo and Alquilino, travel to Miami in the 1960s as part of Operation Pedro Pan, a covert mission to evacuate Cuban children during Fidel Castro's regime; they navigate challenges in a refugee camp and Julian ultimately becomes a hero, reuniting with his family in Connecticut.

Adventurous

Emotional

Melancholic

Hopeful

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

2,770 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

90 Miles to Havana by Enrique Flores-Galbis is a compelling historical novel praised for its vivid depiction of Cuban refugees and their struggles in 1960s America. Readers appreciate its captivating narrative and well-drawn characters. Some critics note the pacing can be uneven, but the emotional depth and cultural authenticity resonate strongly.

Who should read this

Who Should Read 90 Miles to Havana?

Ideal for middle-grade readers who enjoy historical fiction, 90 Miles to Havana by Enrique Flores-Galbis appeals to those intrigued by the Cuban Revolution and child immigration. Fans of Refugee by Alan Gratz and Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan will find this novel equally compelling.

4.2

2,770 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Julian

The protagonist and first-person narrator, a clever boy who enjoys inventing, drawing, and sailing. He struggles to step out from the shadow of his older brothers and strives for independence.

Julian's eldest brother, known for his careful and thoughtful nature. Often responsible for mediating conflicts and providing protection, especially for Julian.

Julian's impulsive and aggressive older brother, whose real name is Eduardo. He is very protective of his family, though his actions sometimes lead to challenges for them.

A former classmate from Havana who asserts control at the refugee camp in Miami. Though often cruel and dictatorial, he occasionally shows a more humane side.

The boys' neighbor from Havana and Julian’s friend, confident and headstrong. She helps Julian in standing up against bullies and values family deeply.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cuba And Florida • 1960s

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

790L

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