Cuba 15

by Nancy Osa

Violet Paz has just turned 15, a pivotal birthday in the eyes of her Cuban grandmother. Fifteen is the age when a girl enters womanhood, traditionally celebrating the occasion with a quinceañero. But while Violet is half Cuban, she’s also half Polish, and more importantly, she feels 100% American. Except for her zany family’s passion for playing dominoes, smoking cigars, and dancing to Latin music, Violet knows little about Cuban culture, nada about quinces, and only tidbits about the history of Cuba. So when Violet begrudgingly accepts Abuela’s plans for a quinceañero–and as she begins to ask questions about her Cuban roots–cultures and feelings collide. The mere mention of Cuba and Fidel Castro elicits her grandparents’ sadness and her father’s anger. Only Violet’s aunt Luz remains open-minded. With so many divergent views, it’s not easy to know what to believe. All Violet knows is that she’s got to form her own opinions, even if this jolts her family into unwanted confrontations. After all, a quince girl is supposed to embrace responsibility–and to Violet that includes understanding the Cuban heritage that binds her to a homeland she’s never seen. This is Nancy Osa’s first novel.

From the Hardcover edition.

Genres: Young Adult, Realistic Fiction, Fiction, Teen, Cultural, Middle Grade, Coming Of Age

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Zoeisbookhooked · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was cute! It was all about a 15 year old girl learning about different countries and where her family roots are.
Violet is American, but half Polish and half Cuban. Funny thing is I am American and I’m well...a descent amount Polish lol and I have an odd fascination with Cuba.
Which is why I picked up this book in the first place. Because I’ve had a strange attraction to Cuba and it just sounded like me. This was adorable and I could totally relate to her wanting to and being drawn to learning about other countries and longing to travel. And we are both 15 so I understood all her teenage crap😂 But overall this was cute :)

[Casey Strauss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet Paz, the 15 year old narrator of Cuba 15, is finding herself in the middle of preparing for her quinceranero, a traditional party thrown for fifteen year old girls in Latin American countries. The problem? Violet has no interest in celebrating. Wearing a pink dress and a tiara in front of all of her friends and family is the last activity she would ever want to participate in. She is more interested in her speech team, her friends, and American culture. Violet’s father is from Cuba, while her mother is Polish American. Throughout the story, Violet learns more about a culture that at first seems so foreign to her.

Nancy Osa has created a strong voice in the character of Violet. The writing is often witty, and Violet’s sense of humor is illustrated throughout the book. She is a typical teenager, with the typical worries, yet she is trying to figure out what culture she feels she fits best; American or Cuban. There is conflict between Violet and her father as she is looking for answers and desires to know more about his life growing up in Cuba. Violet is surrounded by her Latin American culture, and when she takes a Spanish class, she desires to know more about where she is from. The character of Violet shows growth throughout the story, as she learns more about her roots and where her family is from. Seventh graders and up would enjoy reading this coming of age story, discussions of acceptance, understanding, and cultural diversity could tie into the novel. This is a realistic fiction novel that many cross-cultural students will relate to. Readers, who enjoyed Pam Munoz Ryan’s Esperanza Rising, would also enjoy this story, told also from the point of view of a strong female voice coming of age in America.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful story! Its about tradition, coming of age and the love of family!

[Shannon Tonetta · Rating 3 out of 5]

cute story but it was too young for me.

[Gabby Palmer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t like the vegan friend

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute book about a thouroughly Americanized half Cuban/half Polish girl whose family wants her to embrace some of her Cuban roots. I thought it showed pretty accurately how many mixed race kids are often taught to ignore their white side as not having a culture. It also showed the difficulty of refugees assimilating to America and was a good portrait of friendship, although the praise of Che Geuverra, who murdered millions of people was nauseating. No one teaches that side of the story.

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three and a half stars is about right. Terrific story - lots of information about bicultural families, a bit slow in parts. Ages 12-14 is most appropriate for this book but it's a good, solid read for those who enjoy contemporary family and teen stories. The Cuban father and the American mother are firm and loving and wacky, a welcome change from so many of the teen angst books with dysfunctional or non-existent parents. This book is also completely free of violence, swearing, and any inappropriate situations. Learn about Cuban tradition and music - read this book.

[Brenda Ruiz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cuba 15 by Nancy Osa is a novel about a girl named Violet Paz who has just turned fifteen. Her Cuban family is planning a fifteen party for her. Violet isn’t so much for the party because she doesn’t know much about her Cuban culture. She is full American and doesn’t speak a lot of Spanish but she can understand most of it. Violet isn’t as excited about her party like her family is. She’s not the type of girl to wear dresses or heels. Violets grandma is all about her quince that she soon accepts to have one. While planning her party she learns more about her culture. Her family goes through the history of Cuba and emotions spread.

I really enjoyed reading this novel. It was sweet and very emotional, I could relate to Violet and her family. Mexico celebrates fifteen parties the way Cuba does. When I turned fifteen my parents offered to throw a party but in the end I decided not to have one since most of my family lives in Mexico. It’s a tradition to throw a big party once a girl turns fifteen. The characters in the book made it more enjoyable with their humor. My favorite character was abuela, she reminds me of mine. The way the author added some Spanish words in the novel made it more delightful as well.

[Thomas DeWolf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having visited Cuba while making Traces of the Trade in 2001, I picked this book up simply because of the title. It's a lovely coming-of-age story about a 15-year-old girl interested in learning about her roots in Cuba with her Cuban father and Cuban grandparents unwilling to share in the face of their anger at what Castro did that caused them to leave their homeland for the United States. Well written, a solid story. I recommend this book without reservation!

[Laura L · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dnf at 22%

I couldn't get into this, I think I have outgrown this story being 26. Also the main character and I don't have much common ground with what little I know about her. The characters aren't memorable and I found the story to be a bit boring.

[Thomas Zemsky]

The theme was that be brave some things are about you.

[gracie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5, this book is so good!

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! It was super relatable for me since I don't look Spanish like the main character so it makes me feel disconnected from my culture. I really appreciated this story and all of the characters. It felt like I was with my family.

[Daniel Garcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Allow me to start off by saying that this is nowhere near the genre of books that I usually enjoy to read, so it's something out of my comfort zone. However, I surprisingly enjoyed the book very much and continued to read it until the end. I highly encourage everyone to read this book of and read something from a different genre.

"Cuba 15," written by Nancy Osa, is a book that begins with Violet's grandmother wanting to plan a quinceañero for Violet because she feels that it is a necessity. In her grandmother's eyes, it is a transition from being a child into womanhood. Since her grandmother is Cuban, she finds this practice should be done whenever someone turns 15, though, in the eyes of Violet, she feels American and isn't looking forward to it. After much talking and having to discuss certain specifications with her family, Violet agrees to have her quinceañero with some of her own rules. Violet also does not know much about her culture, so she resorts to having to do research and reading a book on what occurs during a quinceañero. Throughout the book, Violet attempts to understand her family and the culture while preparing and performing a comedy sketch inspired by her family. Soon enough, Violet's perspective begins to change as she starts to realize and learn what it really means to have a quinceañero and accepts the idea.

Overall, Cuba 15 is a book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading because it was something that I am not normally used to, so it gave me insight to a different type of book. Additionally, Nancy Osa includes humor in the book to get the reader hooked and feel as if they are part of the story, which was very effective in my opinion. I would recommend this book to anyone who feels that they would like to learn a bit about a different heritage and would like to have some laughs as well.

[Aly Gutierrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

• Book summary
-This is a wonderful multicultural coming of age story. Violet is the protagonist of this story and she did not know much about her Cuban culture. Her grandmother convinced her to have a quinceanera, even though she fought through the whole process. Did not want the big sparkly dress and definitely did not want to get escorted by a boy. Though, throughout the planning of her party, she learned a great deal about her culture. By the time her party came around, she was excited. She now has a new boyfriend, and is more connected to her Cuban roots.

• Pura Belpre Honor Award

• Grade level, interest level, Lexile
-750L 6th-8th grade.

• Appropriate classroom use (subject area)
-Read while learning about other cultures. Learning multiculturalism is essential in our multicultural society.

• Individual students who might benefit from reading
-Students that are Hispanic and know about a quinceanera will greatly enjoy learning about the culture and read this coming of age story.

• Small group use (literature circles)
-After reading, students can analyze the events that occurred and what they learned about her Cuban culture. How might her family and culture relate to yours? What did you find interesting after reading?

• Whole class use (read aloud)
-After reading, ask students what they found interesting or if there was anything that they could relate to.

• Related books in genre/subject or content area
-“Quinceanera means sweet fifteen” by Veronia Chambers is another good book for the students that are interested in reading more stories about girls and their quinceaneras.

• Multimedia connections
-Available with Kindle or as a paperback copy.

[Ruhama · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rollicking look at the Cuban quinceanero, a special ceremony for girls who turn 15. Violet Paz is half Cuban, half Polish, and her father’s mother has decided Violet needs to have her quinceanero, though Violet barely speaks Spanish, knows little of her Cuban heritage (her father is quite close-mouthed about it) and Violet dislikes almost all aspects of the traditional party (especially having to wear a dress). Violet learns to love her family and her heritage, though it takes joining the speech team to do so. Violet is picked to do Original Comedy, and she creates a routine that personifies her family perfectly—right down to the accents her
grandparents have. In the end, Violet has her quinceanero the way she likes it—wearing pants—and her whole family learns more about themselves and how to share with one another.

Osa has written a fun story (parts of the story are laugh-out-loud) that shows the ups and downs a family, particularly a biracial family, goes through, particularly when one family member is a teenager. Violet’s character grows and changes through the course of the novel
at a believable rate, and the characters around Violet are not cardboard cut-outs, including her little brother, her best friends, her new boyfriend and her extended family. Spanish phrases are sprinkled throughout and fit the text accordingly. Even readers who aren’t in a blended family will enjoy this title.

[Lourdes · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was interested in this story because Violet is half Cuban and half Polish. just like my children. Her Cuban grandmother wants to celebrate her Quince/15th birthday with a traditional Cuban party. What the story doesn't explore is that long ago young ladies were presented in society at these sorts of parties. It was a right of passage, a way to show that your daughter was grown up, a woman. In many cases, ready for marriage! As a modern Cuban myself, I refused to have this sort of party because I didn't agree with this mentality. Quince parties have become an embarrassment in the culture. Many times, families have extravagant parties that they cannot afford. It has gotten out of hand. Violet's party was moving in just that direction. My favorite part of the book is the exploration of three generations under on roof. It reminded me of my childhood in that way.

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was really good! When I picked it up, I anticipated that it was a modern YA novel, when it fact it was published in 2003. It wasn't terribly noticable, but having been around then, there were a few hallmarks such as long distance calling to California from Chicago. It was nice to read a book about a Cuban family set somewhere besides Miami, and especially nice that it is somewhat local. I learned a lot about quinceneras and Cuban culture that I didn't already know, too. It was fun to be able to translate most of the Spanish phrases after learning the language for the last two years. I recommend this book!

[Petra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cuba 15 reminded me of a 15-year-old version of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," with a quinceanera instead of a wedding. It was entertaining, with a relatable premise, but to be perfectly honest the jokes weren't all that funny, and the writing seemed a little perfunctory at times. I was happy to find that it didn't include much swearing, which gets tiresome after a while. Overall, it wasn't a waste of time to read, but I think I could've found something better.

[Trevor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this coming-of-age story. It's about identity and cultural origins. You can't shy away from who you are or where you're from, because if you try to, you won't have a clear sense of where you're going. The narrator is comical, which is also great, I guess, and not just because she is part of a comedy team. All in all, the book is perfect for your middle-grade audience or just about anyone curious! An easy read.

[Raquel Castaneda]

I like this books so far because it has to do with a girl that barely became 15 and her Cuban grandmother wants her to have a quinceañera. The thing is that she doesn't want one because she doesn't like dresses & it doesn't fit her personality. While planning she's starting to get to the idea of actually wanting one. I can't wait to finish it!:)

[Steph]

I've come to a decision to not force myself to read books that I don't enjoy. I got to 25% and still can't get this book to be interesting. I don't feel interested in characters who occupy page after page of stereotype.

Here's a Haiku for this book:

blah blah blah
blah blah blah blah blah
blah blah blah

[Lauren · Rating 1 out of 5]

I learned nothing about Cuba and I don’t think Violet did either. For the entire book to be built around her introduction to womanhood, there was very little tie in between what she knew about herself and what she learned. It’s been a few years since I was 15, but, good grief, I hope I want that narcissistic. It was cringe worthy.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this fun coming-of-age novel. Violet Paz is a character that brought smiles to my face over and over again as she prepared for her quince. She is half Cuban and half Polish and is working out what that means. There is a nice dose of humor throughout the book.

[Isabelle Bravo · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a really good coming of age book showing the aspects of a normal family with Spanish culture.

[Librosconkylie · Rating 3 out of 5]

If I had read this earlier in life, I’m sure I would have liked it even more! A good coming of age story, with a good lesson

[Sharlene GIbson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This YA book has Latin America influences both in its use of incorporating Spanish phrases into the writing and its focus on culture. I would recommend this story because its focus upon the communist influence upon Cuba and the aspects of Quienceanos that I would otherwise be unaware of. Therefore despite being a work of fiction, its does contain cultural information. I would recommend at least having some baseline of Spanish knowledge though not required for comprehension its nice to pick up on the little phrases sprinkled throughout the narrative.
The ideas presented within also helps people like me who didn't grow with this experience empathize with different contents.
Hearing about the protagonist's identity crisis when trying to bridge the gap between her parents two very different backgrounds gave me insight into the difficulties of trying to fit in, even within one's own family. I appreciate what this books fresh perspective and ideas.
Summary: (Tried to be spoiler free, but naturally some details will be included)
In Cuba 15, Violetta is preparing for her Quienceanos, a part to celebrate her entrance into woman hood. Though initially unsure about the entire event, Violetta becomes more accustomed to the idea after receiving a instructional manual. As she learns more about the ceremony, she wishes to take charge of some of the key planning. In addition, it amplifies her wish to learn more about her roots in Cuba. The only problem, her grandparents and father usually refuse to talk about their homelands and when they do it is always about the communist rule. In addition to Violettas cultural investigation, she must also handle her family's parties (including overseeing domino style games) and her writing position given to her by the highly competitive principal. In addition she begins to cultivate a relationship with a debate team member Clarence. By the end the two begin to offical date. Through these responsibilities Violetta is able to find her talent for writing humor and with a little help from her friend Leda learns more about the protests surrounding her community. Despite her father's warnings she attends an event and learns the complicated history of the United States embargo with Cuba. Swayed by the protesters Anti isolationism policies She donates to the cause and begins to advocate for these positions until her father learns of her involvement. Enraged by her defiance he attempts to cancel her party but is eventually convinced out of it by his wife. During the story her father grows to better trust and respect his daughters freedom while her grandmother becomes more open to sharing her experiences in precommunist Cuba. The party is not canceled and Violetta invites her friends, community members, and her family.

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Violet Paz has been through a lot, but her journey to adulthood just got started.

Violet Paz lived her whole life trying to follow tradition. Now that her 15th birthday is coming up; she must prepare for her Quinceanera. A Quinceanera is a traditional celebration that celebrates a girl’s transition from girlhood to womanhood. Violet has the choice to rebel against tradition by modernizing her party or to keep the tradition. Not only does Violet have to construct her traditional birthday bash, she also needs to juggle school projects, comedy speeches, friends, drama and family. Nancy Osa’s writing has truly brought her story to life by her humor, characters and the lessons that she teaches the reader throughout the book. This book inspires young readers to be open with their parents about ideas and changes. Furthermore, Cuba 15 can be relatable for Hispanic or Latino families from all over by referencing food, classic games such as Dominoes and more! Readers of this book might say that it was similar in read to the books “If You Come Softly”, “Home is not a country” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”. These connections are due to how the book is written, the theme and the message. Readers may also find the book confusing at first with the large intro of characters within the first 20 pages; especially due to it being fast pace. With all that aside, everything starts to make sense the more the reader dives in. If there’s something this book can do, it’s the ability of captivation into Violet’s life that makes it impossible to stop reading! Nancy Osa’s relatable humor makes reading this book fun, “What can be funny about having to stand up in front of everyone you know, in a ruffly-dress the color of Pepto-Bismol, and proclaim your womanhood? Nothing.” ─ it’s quotes like these that enthrall the reader.

What a wonderful rollercoaster of humor, lessons, redemption and twists!

[Chanelle S · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quinceañera is a huge party that a Cuban family traditionally hosts for a daughter when she turns 15. It’s about celebrating a girl becoming a woman, becoming her own person... and being old enough to get married, too, at least in the olden days. Yikes. Not today, though. At least, not for Violet Paz.

Violet is 15, and her dad’s family comes from Cuba, so her grandma is all about giving her a quinceañera—complete with a big fluffy pink dress, a tiara, a special church service, dancing, and 15 attendants! It’s like she’s getting married or something! Violet isn’t sure this party is for her. She hasn’t worn a dress EVER since junior high. She doesn’t know how to dance. And who wants to stand up in front of people and get stared at?? Besides, NO ONE that she knows has ever had a big party just for turning 15. It all seems like a crazy idea to her. But her best friend gets her thinking: why throw away an opportunity to have a huge party? Maybe she can make it her own.

With some help from her friends, some advice from her aunt, and a book called The Quinceanera for the Gringo Dummy, Violet realizes that some traditions are made to be broken—and then the fun starts. This is going to be one awesome party after all.

(REVIEW: Lite and funny. I really enjoyed it. A nice, smart girl with good values who is involved in school, does her homework, meets a boy and kisses a couple of times, plays dominoes with her extended family a lot, loves being on speech team, and has loyal friends. A working knowledge of some basic Spanish is helpful because Osa throws in words and phrases throughout the book without including the translation. You don’t need to know every word of it, but knowing a little is helpful. Lexile: 750L)

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a well-written and humorous story with an interesting background context. It's not a 5 for me because I found a lot of it to be quite predictable. Also, I tend to be critical of books with female characters who are very against dresses, the color pink, and other "traditional" feminine things. To me that is the easiest way to start writing a "strong" female character, but I find it cliché. The dislike of dresses plays a big role in this book, so that prevented me from totally loving this. BUT that said, the context that this book is set in (a girl whose Cuban family won't talk to her about Cuba because of their political experiences in the country) was very interesting.