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The Red Umbrella

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

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Book Brief

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Christina Diaz Gonzalez

The Red Umbrella

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

284

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cuba • 1960s

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

590L

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Super Short Summary

The Red Umbrella by Christina Diaz Gonzalez follows Lucia Alvarez and her brother Frankie, who are sent to the United States to escape the oppressive regime in Cuba during the early 1960s. As the siblings adjust to life in Nebraska with a host family, Lucia matures and learns the value of family and independence, all while gaining a deeper understanding of the political turmoil back home. The book contains scenes involving violence and state oppression.

Emotional

Nostalgic

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.4

5,513 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Christina Diaz Gonzalez's The Red Umbrella is widely praised for its emotional depth and vivid portrayal of Cuban history. Critics commend its relatable protagonist and engaging narrative. However, some note that the pacing can be slow at times. Overall, it's recognized as a meaningful read that effectively introduces young readers to complex historical events.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Red Umbrella?

A reader who would enjoy The Red Umbrella by Christina Diaz Gonzalez is likely a young adult or middle-grade reader interested in historical fiction and coming-of-age stories. Similar audiences enjoy Refugee by Alan Gratz and Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan, which explore themes of political turmoil, displacement, and personal resilience.

4.4

5,513 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

284

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cuba • 1960s

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

590L

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