How to Say Goodbye in Cuban | Review

How to Say Goodbye in Cuban
by Daniel Miyares
Random House Children’s, Sep 30 2025, $21.99
Grades 5 and up

In this stunning biographical graphic novel, the author recounts his father’s life before and during the Cuban Revolution, offering readers a vivid glimpse into a childhood disrupted by Fidel Castro’s rise to power. Told through the eyes of 12-year-old Carlos, the story captures the warmth of family life in the Cuban countryside and the heartbreak of political upheaval, culminating in a daring escape to a new life filled with hope and opportunity.

Carlos enjoys a joyful life surrounded by his extended family and shares a close bond with his grandfather. When his father wins the lottery, the family moves to the city in pursuit of a better future. However, their dreams are shattered when Castro’s regime seizes his father’s newly established business, marking the beginning of a difficult and uncertain chapter.

Carlos’s innocence and confusion are portrayed with great sensitivity. The narrative, told entirely from his perspective, allows readers to experience his emotional journey—his bewilderment, pain, and growing distrust. Interspersed throughout the story are black-and-white pages that pause the narrative to provide historical context, offering readers a deeper understanding of the events unfolding around Carlos.

The artwork is beautifully stylized, resembling watercolor paintings. Miyares uses the natural setting to create serene and visually appealing scenes that contrast with the chaos of the revolution. The color palette effectively sets the tone for each moment, while each chapter ends with a black-and-white sketch accompanied by a brief explanation of the historical developments.

This is a highly accessible and moving graphic novel that adults should consider sharing with the children in their lives. It not only offers insight into a pivotal moment in history but also helps readers understand the motivations behind the journeys of those who have sought refuge and opportunity in America.

Filed under: Graphic Novels, Reviews