56 pages • 1 hour read
Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings
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Book Brief
224
Memoir in Verse • Nonfiction
Cuba And United States • 1950s
2015
Middle grade
10-14 years
1120L
Super Short Summary
In Enchanted Air, Margarita Engle recounts her biracial identity journey during Cuba's Civil War and the Cold War, highlighting her experiences of family separation, cultural dislocation, and political tension while navigating life between Cuba and the United States. Sensitive topics include historical conflict, identity struggles, and emotional stress.
Nostalgic
Emotional
Hopeful
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
3,701 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Enchanted Air by Margarita Engle is widely praised for its beautiful, poetic prose and its poignant portrayal of a bicultural childhood during the Cold War. Readers appreciate the emotional depth and lyrical quality of the memoir, though some feel the historical context could be more thoroughly explored. Overall, it is celebrated for its heartfelt storytelling and vivid imagery.
Who Should Read Enchanted Air?
Readers who enjoy The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros or Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson would appreciate Enchanted Air by Margarita Engle. Ideal for young adults and poetry lovers, it appeals to those interested in memoirs, cultural identity, and lyrical narratives.
3,701 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
MAMI
MAMI
The author’s Cuban mother, who maintains her Cuban citizenship, embodies themes of bravery and courage while dealing with her status as a "stateless" individual. Her relationship with the author highlights small acts of bravery and their close bond.
DAD
DAD
The author's Ukrainian American father, an artist and professor, is a less frequent presence but influences themes of travel and cultural dichotomy through his "wanderlust" and quixotic nature.
ABUELITA
ABUELITA
The author’s Cuban grandmother symbolizes family and cultural connection, providing a contrast between Cuban and American customs. Her letters offer the author insight into the political situation in Cuba and support the author's personal growth.
224
Memoir in Verse • Nonfiction
Cuba And United States • 1950s
2015
Middle grade
10-14 years
1120L
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