Short Story Collection
Cuba, Between History and Legend
Oscar Ramirez-Orbea, PhD
Pre-publication
142 pages
One of the benefits of being a writer is having the
flexibility to reshape what has happened in the past so that it offers a
different perspective and allows a rejuvenated point of view. Cuba,
Between History and Legend, is a collection of nine stories based on
legendary tales about Cuba. Dr. Oscar Ramirez-Orbea, author of Cuba, I
Remember You and co-author of several Spanish language audio programs,
mixes poetic license with historical fact. The author displays an enthusiasm
for the history that adds value and depth to these colorful stories.
There is a range of subject matter to sink into here:
Catholicism, unrequited love, political protest, and devil worship are a few
of the areas the author exposes in the history of the Cuban culture.
“Aimless” and “Letter to an Unknown Woman” look at the events leading to the
executions of two religious men. Brother Joseph Diaz Pimienta is burned at
the stake after a life drifting between the Jewish and Catholic faiths. The
other, Father Esteban, is killed by firing squad for speaking out against
the then Spanish ruled-government. The significance of religion in the Cuban
community is vivid in these tales. The torment these men face when
struggling with their personal beliefs versus those of the society they live
in is movingly illustrated by the author. “Isn’t It Romantic” is a
bittersweet departure from government facilitated executions. A bit of
gossip in a beauty salon reveals the sad story of Dolores Rondón, a widow
who died indigent, possibly from small pox, possibly from something one
catches when living off of the kindness of men. A hand painted sign is
placed at her grave with a love poem that the nosey Titico and Bon-Bón
believe was written by a man who once loved Dolores, but whom she ignored.
“The Hardest Thing” is the most intriguing story in the
collection. Manuel Agüero y Ortega, a wealthy man from an important family,
takes in a homeless woman and her son. The woman becomes his housekeeper and
her son builds a strong bond with Manuel’s son. As young adults, the boy
and Manuel’s son duel over a woman whom they both love. Manuel’s son is
killed. Forgiveness and resurrection are the themes of this tale. In this
story as in many of the other stories, the author skillfully seduces the
reader with complicated characters.
The author’s descriptive pen encourages the reader to
connect with the characters and to become immersed in the fantasy world he
creates. The notes section at the end of the book will guide the reader in
seeking additional information about the historical background of the
stories. The author has included artwork with each story that helps to pull
together fact and fiction. This title is available in both English and
Spanish allowing for a broader audience base.
Cuba, Between History and Legend provides
insight into the foundation of the Cuban culture by spinning tales that
incorporate fiction and fact. Ramirez-Orbea, a native of Camagüey, Cuba, a
town showcased throughout this book, displays a passion for the traditions
and historical background of his homeland. This book will serve as an
introduction to Cuba for many and an opportunity to reminisce for others.
Melissa Levine
For Independent Professional Book Reviewers
www.bookreviewers.org
11/28/06
