What do you think?
Rate this book
A Tragédia de Fidel Castro
Há quase 50 anos, Fidel Castro espantou o mundo com a sua revolução. Mas será que El Comandante perdeu o rumo? Ter-se-á transformado no pior inimigo do seu povo?
A Tragédia de Fidel Castro é um livro simultaneamente divertido e exigente, conduzindo-nos à mente de um dos mais enigmáticos e polémicos líderes do mundo actual. A sátira e o humor inteligente - ora discreto ora descarado - prendem-nos e despertam a reflexão. A narrativa foge a quaisquer regras, propondo-se revelar a intricada mente de Fidel como nenhum outro livro o fez.
Qualquer um ficará surpreendido com os personagens que irá
encontrar: Cristo, Afonso Henriques, o Grande Inquisidor, Fátima, Deus e o Diabo... , figuras simbólicas desta tragédia fantástica onde apenas Fidel Castro é real.
Entre as sátiras de Gil Vicente, Ramalho Ortigão e Fialho d'Almeida e a fantasia de Ruben A. Leitão, A Tragédia de Fidel Castro abre uma página nova na literatura portuguesa, na qual se descobre o nosso próprio país.
A Tragédia de Fidel Castro é um livro simultaneamente divertido e exigente, conduzindo-nos à mente de um dos mais enigmáticos e polémicos líderes do mundo actual. A sátira e o humor inteligente - ora discreto ora descarado - prendem-nos e despertam a reflexão. A narrativa foge a quaisquer regras, propondo-se revelar a intricada mente de Fidel como nenhum outro livro o fez.
Qualquer um ficará surpreendido com os personagens que irá
encontrar: Cristo, Afonso Henriques, o Grande Inquisidor, Fátima, Deus e o Diabo... , figuras simbólicas desta tragédia fantástica onde apenas Fidel Castro é real.
Entre as sátiras de Gil Vicente, Ramalho Ortigão e Fialho d'Almeida e a fantasia de Ruben A. Leitão, A Tragédia de Fidel Castro abre uma página nova na literatura portuguesa, na qual se descobre o nosso próprio país.
221 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2008
1 person is currently reading
413 people want to read
About the author
João Cerqueira
14 books42 followersJoão Cerqueira was born and lives in Viana do Castelo, Portugal.
He holds a PhD in Art History from the University of Porto.
He is the author of nine books and is published in eight countries: Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, England, United States, Brazil, Argentina.
He won the 2020 Indie Reader Awards, the 2014 Global ebook Awards and the 2013 USA Best Book Awards.
The short storie A house in Europe won the 2015 Speakando European Literary Contest, received the bronze medal in the Ebook Me Up Short Story Competition 2015 and an honorable mention in the Glimmer Train July 2015 Very Short Fiction Award.
The short storie The dictator and poetry was published in the 2016 Bombay Review Anthology.
His works are published in The Adirondack Review, Ragazine, Berfrois, Cleaver Magazine, Bright Lights Film, Modern Times Magazine, Toad Suck Review, Foliate Oak Literary Magazine, Hypertext Magazine, Danse Macabre, Rapid River Magazine, Contemporary Literary Review India, Open Pen Magazine, Queen Mob’s Tea House, The Liberator Magazine, Near to the Nuckle, Narrator International, The Transnational.
He holds a PhD in Art History from the University of Porto.
He is the author of nine books and is published in eight countries: Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, England, United States, Brazil, Argentina.
He won the 2020 Indie Reader Awards, the 2014 Global ebook Awards and the 2013 USA Best Book Awards.
The short storie A house in Europe won the 2015 Speakando European Literary Contest, received the bronze medal in the Ebook Me Up Short Story Competition 2015 and an honorable mention in the Glimmer Train July 2015 Very Short Fiction Award.
The short storie The dictator and poetry was published in the 2016 Bombay Review Anthology.
His works are published in The Adirondack Review, Ragazine, Berfrois, Cleaver Magazine, Bright Lights Film, Modern Times Magazine, Toad Suck Review, Foliate Oak Literary Magazine, Hypertext Magazine, Danse Macabre, Rapid River Magazine, Contemporary Literary Review India, Open Pen Magazine, Queen Mob’s Tea House, The Liberator Magazine, Near to the Nuckle, Narrator International, The Transnational.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 28, 2013
"When God receives a request from Fatima to help prevent a war between Fidel Castro and JFK, he asks his son, Jesus, to return to Earth and diffuse the conflict."...
Okay, this is when I started worrying about being struck by lightning and seriously hoping that God has a sense of humor!
The author has taken beings, people and events we know about and turned them into a humorous, satire that will keep you laughing and shaking your head! (Did he really write that???)
When one reads the title, there is no way you would guess what kind of book this is! This is an easy read, colorful, and well-written with a great wrap up at the end! I recommend this for a change of pace!
This book was provided by NetGalley and the Greenleaf Book Group in exchange for an honest review!
Okay, this is when I started worrying about being struck by lightning and seriously hoping that God has a sense of humor!
The author has taken beings, people and events we know about and turned them into a humorous, satire that will keep you laughing and shaking your head! (Did he really write that???)
When one reads the title, there is no way you would guess what kind of book this is! This is an easy read, colorful, and well-written with a great wrap up at the end! I recommend this for a change of pace!
This book was provided by NetGalley and the Greenleaf Book Group in exchange for an honest review!
January 20, 2013
This book may not deliver what you initially envision, with the cover title, The Tragedy of Fidel Castro, suggesting a political tale based on the historical facts of controversial Cuban Prime Minister Castro. However, I guarantee it delivers so much more. In fact, rather than a historical script, this clever works of author João Cerqueira is really a modern reflection on the state of the world and its people, written metaphorically and expressing ideologies akin to those you’d expect to find in titles by esteemed authors including Wayne Dyer, Dan Millman and our beloved Paulo Coehlo.
Before embarking on the story, a preface warns us that “all characters and organizations mentioned are entirely fictional.” For example, “Christ has nothing to do with Jesus Christ, the son of God,” “God does not represent God, creator of the world and men…” and “JFK is someone other than an American president with the same initials.” However, in the beginning at least, it’s difficult to drop your preconceived notions of these characters, particularly when they seem to have the same relationships with each other as we’ve know them to have had in the real world…i.e. the prologue details a conversation between God and His son, Christ, the first chapter introduces JFK, who is indeed referred to as a President…
Temporarily, this irked me, particularly after coming across some rather ironic statements which I didn’t quite know how to take, without some degree of offence, as they seemed to mock the Christian faith. For example, “…he was a beautiful man, dark with blue eyes and an athletic build, and had been depicted in paintings and calendars by artists who had never set eyes on him” followed by “Having shifted the responsibility – that ancient cross – onto Christ’s shoulders, God, who liked to delegate so as to observe conflicts from a distance, accurately anticipated his boy’s decision”. Now, I’m no die-hard Christian, but having been Catholic schooled, there was just something unsettling about these statements that I just couldn’t quite shake. However, I warn you of these in advance, more so that to encourage you to take them with a grain of salt and keep reading! For as baffling as the author’s intentions may initially seem, it soon becomes clear that his motives are more than well-intentioned and his insights more than worth their mere accumulation of words.
So, to the story. It begins with God warning his Son that an imminent war will descend upon Earth, after which he requests that Christ return to Earth. What follows is a story which, in almost every paragraph, delivers insights much like those of Michael Moore’s in his touching, yet inspiring, documentaries.
It touches on themes including the people’s resistance to the political paradigm: “from time to time, evil beings [read: people] would appear that were more dangerous than any army. These supreme threats manifested in the form of men of faith or warriors, both of whom wielded words like weapons, words that would shake the people out of their torpor, breaking the spell”…a brilliant euphemism for the constant struggle between the elite that rule and the rest of us mere mortals; our subconscious versus our conscious minds: “This partnership naturally gave rise to some conflicts, as the architect [read: our subconscious mind] was prone to soaring flights of fancy which the pragmatic engineer [read: our conscious or rational mind] could not keep up with”, detailing the thought process that follows when the rational brain overtakes, often killing off inspirational ideas before they have a chance to become reality; and our troubled relationship with fear: where, for example Cerqueira details a scene of ‘actors’ who, before the entrance of the President and Governor, “were exceeding themselves as if this was the last show they would ever do and gilded statuettes had been promised them” yet after witnessing the appearance of their political leaders, were silenced, as “the hubbub drained away with a confused whine, such as might be produced by an out-of-tune instrument, as if the voices had been sucked back into the actors’ throats.” The message here reminded me very much of something I’d read of Wayne Dyer’s: “The only thing that will keep you from playing the music you hear and marching to the unique drumbeat you experience within, is fear.” Well said by both authors, except to an entirely different tune. It’s one thing to choose a self-help book (my thing though, understandably, not everyone’s cup of tea), where the philosophies are pretty much spelt out for you, and quite another to embark on a story, where those philosophies are intricately yet delicately laid within the script to be stumbled upon like diamonds in the rough.
Suffice to say, this novel is VERY cleverly written, and is a gem to read. Yes, its themes are religion, capitalism and socialism, but what it really focuses on is human potential. And whilst it is written somewhat satirically, making it an enjoyable read from start to finish, its points are anything but. This book is a truly inspiring well of wisdom, written in a unique and refreshing way, encouraging you to lap up as much as you can.
João Cerqueira is a well-known Portuguese author, whose works have only recently been translated into English. I expect that his star will continue rising, with his books reflecting themes that are more relevant than ever to today’s contemplative modern society.
Before embarking on the story, a preface warns us that “all characters and organizations mentioned are entirely fictional.” For example, “Christ has nothing to do with Jesus Christ, the son of God,” “God does not represent God, creator of the world and men…” and “JFK is someone other than an American president with the same initials.” However, in the beginning at least, it’s difficult to drop your preconceived notions of these characters, particularly when they seem to have the same relationships with each other as we’ve know them to have had in the real world…i.e. the prologue details a conversation between God and His son, Christ, the first chapter introduces JFK, who is indeed referred to as a President…
Temporarily, this irked me, particularly after coming across some rather ironic statements which I didn’t quite know how to take, without some degree of offence, as they seemed to mock the Christian faith. For example, “…he was a beautiful man, dark with blue eyes and an athletic build, and had been depicted in paintings and calendars by artists who had never set eyes on him” followed by “Having shifted the responsibility – that ancient cross – onto Christ’s shoulders, God, who liked to delegate so as to observe conflicts from a distance, accurately anticipated his boy’s decision”. Now, I’m no die-hard Christian, but having been Catholic schooled, there was just something unsettling about these statements that I just couldn’t quite shake. However, I warn you of these in advance, more so that to encourage you to take them with a grain of salt and keep reading! For as baffling as the author’s intentions may initially seem, it soon becomes clear that his motives are more than well-intentioned and his insights more than worth their mere accumulation of words.
So, to the story. It begins with God warning his Son that an imminent war will descend upon Earth, after which he requests that Christ return to Earth. What follows is a story which, in almost every paragraph, delivers insights much like those of Michael Moore’s in his touching, yet inspiring, documentaries.
It touches on themes including the people’s resistance to the political paradigm: “from time to time, evil beings [read: people] would appear that were more dangerous than any army. These supreme threats manifested in the form of men of faith or warriors, both of whom wielded words like weapons, words that would shake the people out of their torpor, breaking the spell”…a brilliant euphemism for the constant struggle between the elite that rule and the rest of us mere mortals; our subconscious versus our conscious minds: “This partnership naturally gave rise to some conflicts, as the architect [read: our subconscious mind] was prone to soaring flights of fancy which the pragmatic engineer [read: our conscious or rational mind] could not keep up with”, detailing the thought process that follows when the rational brain overtakes, often killing off inspirational ideas before they have a chance to become reality; and our troubled relationship with fear: where, for example Cerqueira details a scene of ‘actors’ who, before the entrance of the President and Governor, “were exceeding themselves as if this was the last show they would ever do and gilded statuettes had been promised them” yet after witnessing the appearance of their political leaders, were silenced, as “the hubbub drained away with a confused whine, such as might be produced by an out-of-tune instrument, as if the voices had been sucked back into the actors’ throats.” The message here reminded me very much of something I’d read of Wayne Dyer’s: “The only thing that will keep you from playing the music you hear and marching to the unique drumbeat you experience within, is fear.” Well said by both authors, except to an entirely different tune. It’s one thing to choose a self-help book (my thing though, understandably, not everyone’s cup of tea), where the philosophies are pretty much spelt out for you, and quite another to embark on a story, where those philosophies are intricately yet delicately laid within the script to be stumbled upon like diamonds in the rough.
Suffice to say, this novel is VERY cleverly written, and is a gem to read. Yes, its themes are religion, capitalism and socialism, but what it really focuses on is human potential. And whilst it is written somewhat satirically, making it an enjoyable read from start to finish, its points are anything but. This book is a truly inspiring well of wisdom, written in a unique and refreshing way, encouraging you to lap up as much as you can.
João Cerqueira is a well-known Portuguese author, whose works have only recently been translated into English. I expect that his star will continue rising, with his books reflecting themes that are more relevant than ever to today’s contemplative modern society.
January 12, 2014
The Art of Satire and João Cerqueira
Portuguese author João Cerqueira, having won a PhD in History of Art from the University of Oporto, happens to be one of the more clever and creative humorists writing today. His novels satirize modern society and use irony and humor to provoke reflection and controversy. Satire is the form of humor that holds people, or society in general, up for examination, and ridicules the follies revealed. Good satire should offer improving examples or at least make us consider choices we often take for granted. In this sense, satire is of huge value to society. While satire can be cruel to the victims it mocks, it should always be funny. Some of the great satirists whose ranks João Cerqueira joins include Lewis Carroll, George Orwell, Jonathan Swift, Günter Grass, Charles Michael Palahniuk, and P. G. Wodehouse - and I'm sure many have been left out of this too brief list.
The aspect of THE TRAGEDY OF FIDEL CASTRO that makes the book so mesmerizing is the author's fearless treading on icons and rearranging them into a story that is far more poignant and simultaneously hilarious than anything being written today. To quote the author, `The Tragedy of Fidel Castro is a political and metaphysical thriller where Jesus comes to Earth to prevent a war, Fidel Castro writes his memoirs and makes a pact with the Devil, whores and farmers refuse Marxism, monks start a revolution in a monastery, and, in the end, a true miracle happens. I always had an interest in the strange 1917 occurrence that happened in Fátima, when the Virgin Mary appeared to three Portuguese shepherd children, sharing several prophecies, including one that Communism would end. I also spent considerable time in Cuba and hear stories of those who experienced Fidel Castro's regime firsthand. So, The miracle of Fátima and the Cuba experiences inspired The Tragedy of Fidel Castro. When I wrote The Tragedy of Fidel Castro I tried to create something truly original, involving contemporary problems and religion with humor and irony. As I said, I have a great interest in the figure of Fidel Castro in the question of the existence of God, and in the strange occurrence that happened in Fátima in 1917 (the Virgin Mary spoke to tree children and people saw the sun moving - millions of people worldwide still believe in this). So, I think that this novel will make the reader reflect on important issues in today's world and also on the meaning of life.'
It is doubtful anyone could summarize the impact of this book better. Suffice it to say, this book is one that will always remain on the shelf to be read and re-read - especially as the world grows more and more ridiculous in the way we are handling it. This is simply great writing by a young but gifted master storyteller - and satirist!
Grady Harp
Portuguese author João Cerqueira, having won a PhD in History of Art from the University of Oporto, happens to be one of the more clever and creative humorists writing today. His novels satirize modern society and use irony and humor to provoke reflection and controversy. Satire is the form of humor that holds people, or society in general, up for examination, and ridicules the follies revealed. Good satire should offer improving examples or at least make us consider choices we often take for granted. In this sense, satire is of huge value to society. While satire can be cruel to the victims it mocks, it should always be funny. Some of the great satirists whose ranks João Cerqueira joins include Lewis Carroll, George Orwell, Jonathan Swift, Günter Grass, Charles Michael Palahniuk, and P. G. Wodehouse - and I'm sure many have been left out of this too brief list.
The aspect of THE TRAGEDY OF FIDEL CASTRO that makes the book so mesmerizing is the author's fearless treading on icons and rearranging them into a story that is far more poignant and simultaneously hilarious than anything being written today. To quote the author, `The Tragedy of Fidel Castro is a political and metaphysical thriller where Jesus comes to Earth to prevent a war, Fidel Castro writes his memoirs and makes a pact with the Devil, whores and farmers refuse Marxism, monks start a revolution in a monastery, and, in the end, a true miracle happens. I always had an interest in the strange 1917 occurrence that happened in Fátima, when the Virgin Mary appeared to three Portuguese shepherd children, sharing several prophecies, including one that Communism would end. I also spent considerable time in Cuba and hear stories of those who experienced Fidel Castro's regime firsthand. So, The miracle of Fátima and the Cuba experiences inspired The Tragedy of Fidel Castro. When I wrote The Tragedy of Fidel Castro I tried to create something truly original, involving contemporary problems and religion with humor and irony. As I said, I have a great interest in the figure of Fidel Castro in the question of the existence of God, and in the strange occurrence that happened in Fátima in 1917 (the Virgin Mary spoke to tree children and people saw the sun moving - millions of people worldwide still believe in this). So, I think that this novel will make the reader reflect on important issues in today's world and also on the meaning of life.'
It is doubtful anyone could summarize the impact of this book better. Suffice it to say, this book is one that will always remain on the shelf to be read and re-read - especially as the world grows more and more ridiculous in the way we are handling it. This is simply great writing by a young but gifted master storyteller - and satirist!
Grady Harp
December 27, 2013
*I was given a complimentary electronic edition of this by the author in exchange for a review.
There are lots of high ratings for this one and frankly I feel a little left out. I don't like giving poor reviews and I wish I could have enjoyed this as much as so many others appear to have enjoyed it, and I'll leave you to read the other reviews for the plot. I am a fan of magic realism, alternate history, satire and wit. I didn't "get" this. Not one bit of it. It seems that it is supposed to impress with the humor and zing of its madcap and zany rhythm but I felt nothing. No interest and no laughs, and really, nothing to even discuss. Perhaps something is lost in translation.
There are lots of high ratings for this one and frankly I feel a little left out. I don't like giving poor reviews and I wish I could have enjoyed this as much as so many others appear to have enjoyed it, and I'll leave you to read the other reviews for the plot. I am a fan of magic realism, alternate history, satire and wit. I didn't "get" this. Not one bit of it. It seems that it is supposed to impress with the humor and zing of its madcap and zany rhythm but I felt nothing. No interest and no laughs, and really, nothing to even discuss. Perhaps something is lost in translation.
February 10, 2013
I've enjoyed this book so far. Although I found it difficult to get into, once I got used to the author's style I very much liked the story. It takes a bit of magical realism mixed into history to create an alternate version of how things might have been, helping the reader to gain new insight into how things are.
I received this book for free from Goodreads First Reads.
I received this book for free from Goodreads First Reads.
December 14, 2022
A fever dream of a book I'm not sure I understood
January 5, 2014
Satire is an interesting genre. For those of us who love it, we truly love it. For those who don't, they tend to hate it. Most satire requires the reader to know another story or work to get the full benefit of the book, movie, song, or painting. There was once, decades ago, a bank slogan that touted the personal banker relationship. The billboard asked in big letters, "What is the name of your banker?" Someone had written 'Shylock'. If one was not familiar with the play by Shakespeare, one would never understand the satire in the graffiti. Some satire is funny, even without the benefit of knowing the whole story. "Young Frankenstein" by Mel Brooks, for example, had lots of humor even if you had not read the story by Shelley. I found the movie 'Galaxy Quest' so funny that I have seen it 7 or 8 times but I found it so funny because I was completely familiar with Star Trek and the interplay of the actors on and off the screen. Today's story, "The Tragedy of Fidel Castro", served up to us by Joao Cerqueira, is a delicious satire which I believe will be more enticing the more you know about the story of Fidel, his obsessions, his passions, and his dealing with the United States of America, particularly John Kennedy.
About the book:
God discovers that he must send his son to earth once again, this time to stop an impending war between Fidel Castro and John F. Kennedy. Fatima will be there to guide Jesus on his new quest, though she is not sure how they will accomplish all of this. Meanwhile, J. F. K. has his own set of problems; how does he deal with the new reality of Cuba? Fidel has realized that achieving his dream of a perfect society is not as easy as he thought it would be.
In the beginning, God is informed about the growing conflict and must convince his son to return to earth. Not an easy task. If God doesn't do this right, he fears he my be fired. Next in this tale is J. F. K., along with his advisors, slipping into the prison to interrogate and turn Castro's most perfect spy,
Varadero. When they have finished with him, the spy is sent back to Cuba where interesting things happen to him. Meanwhile in Cuba, we learn more about Castro's feelings, thoughts, and his best plans. We also learn he loves to sleep. Remember, this is a satire. Read between the lines.
The dance between these openings and the final battle is a whirlwind of steps, stomps, flings, tosses, and jumps, keeping the reader engaged and a little off balanced. Cerqueira is not afraid to tackle the pros and cons of both socialism and corporatism (often mistaken for capitalism). He is not afraid to take a few swipes at the church and religion in general, either, as he weaves this alternate tale of the battle of wills and wits between J. F. K. and Fidel.
My Take:
Wow! This is quite the book. Nothing escapes Cerqueira's pen. I don't know much of the story of Fidel and Kennedy but it wasn't required to enjoy this short novel. I do think one has to appreciate the different political systems of governing and of economies for this book to have its full impact. Cleanly written, there is nothing in the writing to distract the reader from the tale. It is too easy to identify the characters with their namesakes but take care. There is so much more to this story than an off center retelling of past history. At the same time, the names lend the reader a bit of background to understand the larger but veiled concepts the story conveys. My only complaint is the lack of coverage of Jesus and his ultimate goal. However, the final scene made be laugh as I realized what Cerqueira had said. This story offers dozens of scenes likely to stick with the reader for months or even years to come.
My Recommendation:
Satire is not meant for everyone just as Romance novels and Science Fiction are not meant for everyone. However, if you are a fan of the genre, I believe you will find this pearl of a book will fit right into your treasure case of books.
About the book:
God discovers that he must send his son to earth once again, this time to stop an impending war between Fidel Castro and John F. Kennedy. Fatima will be there to guide Jesus on his new quest, though she is not sure how they will accomplish all of this. Meanwhile, J. F. K. has his own set of problems; how does he deal with the new reality of Cuba? Fidel has realized that achieving his dream of a perfect society is not as easy as he thought it would be.
In the beginning, God is informed about the growing conflict and must convince his son to return to earth. Not an easy task. If God doesn't do this right, he fears he my be fired. Next in this tale is J. F. K., along with his advisors, slipping into the prison to interrogate and turn Castro's most perfect spy,
Varadero. When they have finished with him, the spy is sent back to Cuba where interesting things happen to him. Meanwhile in Cuba, we learn more about Castro's feelings, thoughts, and his best plans. We also learn he loves to sleep. Remember, this is a satire. Read between the lines.
The dance between these openings and the final battle is a whirlwind of steps, stomps, flings, tosses, and jumps, keeping the reader engaged and a little off balanced. Cerqueira is not afraid to tackle the pros and cons of both socialism and corporatism (often mistaken for capitalism). He is not afraid to take a few swipes at the church and religion in general, either, as he weaves this alternate tale of the battle of wills and wits between J. F. K. and Fidel.
My Take:
Wow! This is quite the book. Nothing escapes Cerqueira's pen. I don't know much of the story of Fidel and Kennedy but it wasn't required to enjoy this short novel. I do think one has to appreciate the different political systems of governing and of economies for this book to have its full impact. Cleanly written, there is nothing in the writing to distract the reader from the tale. It is too easy to identify the characters with their namesakes but take care. There is so much more to this story than an off center retelling of past history. At the same time, the names lend the reader a bit of background to understand the larger but veiled concepts the story conveys. My only complaint is the lack of coverage of Jesus and his ultimate goal. However, the final scene made be laugh as I realized what Cerqueira had said. This story offers dozens of scenes likely to stick with the reader for months or even years to come.
My Recommendation:
Satire is not meant for everyone just as Romance novels and Science Fiction are not meant for everyone. However, if you are a fan of the genre, I believe you will find this pearl of a book will fit right into your treasure case of books.
December 23, 2012
THE TRAGEDY OF FIDEL CASTRO
Between reality and fiction, satire in caricature
Satire, which originates in the diatribes of the Cynics and the Stoics, has always busied itself with political and philosophical critique. And if in the first case the cynical Menippus stood out for his harshness concerning philosophical concepts, in the second, Archilochus was the whistleblower of what is left of the conventional or lies buried in Homeric heroism.
These examples, from ancient Rome, denote, from such authors, the concern and intent to denounce what they considered fallacies, inconsistencies and anomalies, similar to the type of education that was given at the time. And as this type of education was already mythologized or made official, social value embodied, they chose the path of ridicule and acidic language to contest it, vulgar, satire, in an attempt, by this method, to implement an historical correction.
In the Renaissance the genre was revived. And so, the most famous satyr, Pietro Arentino, received big bucks, both from Charles V and Francis I, so much did they fear his critical writings...
I speak of Pietro Arentino, though, in my view, Erasmus, in the Praise of Folly, incarnates, not exactly the excellence of satire, but, conceivably, the sublimation of philosophical thinking that is inherent to it.
In Portugal, satire has been a constant since the Middle Ages, just consult the nation’s songbooks, the plays of Gil Vicente, the Letters of Sá de Miranda, and take a look at Camões, Bocage, Eça de Queiros, Cesariny, in brief a never-ending line-up of satyrs, cultivators of the genre in prose, poetry, theater, epistolography, chronicles and literary criticism, etc..
This Tragedy of Fidel Castro is part of this tradition. See the Preface:
“This book takes place in an imaginary time and space. All characters
and organizations mentioned are entirely fictional.
Hence, Christ has nothing to do with Jesus Christ, the son of
God, born in the year zero and crucified by the Romans thirtythree
years later.
God does not represent God, creator of the world and men,
as no one has ever been able to depict Him.
JFK is someone other than an American president with the
same initials.
Fátima has no connection whatsoever with a particular site
in Portugal where, it is claimed, a miracle once occurred.
Fidel Castro perhaps has some similarities with the revolutionary
leader and dictator, Fidel Castro.
All other characters, in principle, never existed.”
These introductory words serve to identify the humoral, anecdotal and parodistic nature of the writing that is presented, as is the case.
The author shows a remarkable development and agility of writing, full of metaphorical notes and damning conclusions, such as the long rhetorical tirades by Fidel. We are before a kind of critical and cynical commentary, not only on national events, but also on international, sacred and profane ones.
The Tragedy of Fidel Castro thus becomes an imaginative, entertaining narrative, though not innocent about the adventures and the rhetoric it uses.
This review was written by the book critic Ramiro Teixeira
Between reality and fiction, satire in caricature
Satire, which originates in the diatribes of the Cynics and the Stoics, has always busied itself with political and philosophical critique. And if in the first case the cynical Menippus stood out for his harshness concerning philosophical concepts, in the second, Archilochus was the whistleblower of what is left of the conventional or lies buried in Homeric heroism.
These examples, from ancient Rome, denote, from such authors, the concern and intent to denounce what they considered fallacies, inconsistencies and anomalies, similar to the type of education that was given at the time. And as this type of education was already mythologized or made official, social value embodied, they chose the path of ridicule and acidic language to contest it, vulgar, satire, in an attempt, by this method, to implement an historical correction.
In the Renaissance the genre was revived. And so, the most famous satyr, Pietro Arentino, received big bucks, both from Charles V and Francis I, so much did they fear his critical writings...
I speak of Pietro Arentino, though, in my view, Erasmus, in the Praise of Folly, incarnates, not exactly the excellence of satire, but, conceivably, the sublimation of philosophical thinking that is inherent to it.
In Portugal, satire has been a constant since the Middle Ages, just consult the nation’s songbooks, the plays of Gil Vicente, the Letters of Sá de Miranda, and take a look at Camões, Bocage, Eça de Queiros, Cesariny, in brief a never-ending line-up of satyrs, cultivators of the genre in prose, poetry, theater, epistolography, chronicles and literary criticism, etc..
This Tragedy of Fidel Castro is part of this tradition. See the Preface:
“This book takes place in an imaginary time and space. All characters
and organizations mentioned are entirely fictional.
Hence, Christ has nothing to do with Jesus Christ, the son of
God, born in the year zero and crucified by the Romans thirtythree
years later.
God does not represent God, creator of the world and men,
as no one has ever been able to depict Him.
JFK is someone other than an American president with the
same initials.
Fátima has no connection whatsoever with a particular site
in Portugal where, it is claimed, a miracle once occurred.
Fidel Castro perhaps has some similarities with the revolutionary
leader and dictator, Fidel Castro.
All other characters, in principle, never existed.”
These introductory words serve to identify the humoral, anecdotal and parodistic nature of the writing that is presented, as is the case.
The author shows a remarkable development and agility of writing, full of metaphorical notes and damning conclusions, such as the long rhetorical tirades by Fidel. We are before a kind of critical and cynical commentary, not only on national events, but also on international, sacred and profane ones.
The Tragedy of Fidel Castro thus becomes an imaginative, entertaining narrative, though not innocent about the adventures and the rhetoric it uses.
This review was written by the book critic Ramiro Teixeira
May 23, 2014
The author prefaces The Tragedy of Fidel Castro with a disclaimer stating that, “All characters and organizations mentioned are entirely fictional.” Yet, from there we follow the story of JFK, Fidel Castro, Fatima, Christ and God Himself. Although the author carefully omits any reference to a particular country or time period, we are aware this is a fictionalized account of the Cuban/American crisis that took place during Kennedy’s presidency.
Far from being a typical account of political tensions between two powerful countries, the author has woven an intricate and thought-provoking tale of what might have happened had God sent his son back to earth to prevent what would amount to Armageddon as a result of an all-out war between the two countries. I was happy to discover that the book never leans or favors one country over another. Neither one escapes the political pokes by the author.
As was already mentioned by other reviewers, this book is definitely not for everyone. It goes off in several directions and is heavy on the intellectual side. However, The Tragedy of Fidel Castro is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. It’s clever, provocative and comical. Light on dialogue, heavy on narration, The Tragedy of Fidel Castro manages to combine religion, politics, philosophy, metaphor and morals all into one fascinating novel.
At one point, as the crisis escalates and war becomes imminent, the devil pays Fidel a visit. A clever exchange between the two ensues. When Fidel asks, “Don’t take this badly, my dear devil, but what if God by chance decides to intervene in the battle as well?” The devil replies, “Just look at the world and tell me who is the strongest!” The author never has to beat the reader over the head with explanations, the implication is there for us to read and interpret for ourselves.
I loved The Tragedy of Fidel Castro! If you’re looking for a unique novel filled with intelligent satire, political farce and an unconventional interpretation of history I highly recommend this book!
Far from being a typical account of political tensions between two powerful countries, the author has woven an intricate and thought-provoking tale of what might have happened had God sent his son back to earth to prevent what would amount to Armageddon as a result of an all-out war between the two countries. I was happy to discover that the book never leans or favors one country over another. Neither one escapes the political pokes by the author.
As was already mentioned by other reviewers, this book is definitely not for everyone. It goes off in several directions and is heavy on the intellectual side. However, The Tragedy of Fidel Castro is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. It’s clever, provocative and comical. Light on dialogue, heavy on narration, The Tragedy of Fidel Castro manages to combine religion, politics, philosophy, metaphor and morals all into one fascinating novel.
At one point, as the crisis escalates and war becomes imminent, the devil pays Fidel a visit. A clever exchange between the two ensues. When Fidel asks, “Don’t take this badly, my dear devil, but what if God by chance decides to intervene in the battle as well?” The devil replies, “Just look at the world and tell me who is the strongest!” The author never has to beat the reader over the head with explanations, the implication is there for us to read and interpret for ourselves.
I loved The Tragedy of Fidel Castro! If you’re looking for a unique novel filled with intelligent satire, political farce and an unconventional interpretation of history I highly recommend this book!
January 31, 2013
This is one of them books, for me personally, that I realised as soon as I read the prologue that the book was on one of my favourite subject areas and if it was as good as I thought it was going to be that I wouldn't want it to finish and be left wanting more.
Even though the author states in his prologue that his characters are not the real, JFK, Fidel Castro, God and God's son Jesus, I think this is the author sense of humour which is strongly evident throughout, it's hard not to relate the characters to the real people.
In order to prevent conflict between JFK and Castro God sends his son to earth to solve it.
The author's knowledge and research shines through the characters and the way they think. A struggle of ideologies of two different people who wanted to achieve the same goal for the best of their people, one through a dictatorship and the other through democracy.
This booked had me hooked from page one , the descriptions and thoughts of the characters give the readers real food for thought .The author uses very clever examples of how one mans actions
can make you think about your beliefs and are they the right or can you change them for the better.
As the story developed the writers humour really comes through on a par with Tom Sharpe .The author places Castro in some excellent situations which both challenge and explain his reasoning and beliefs.
This is an excellent and enthralling read and I really hope that I can obtain or purchase the authors other publications.
Even though the author states in his prologue that his characters are not the real, JFK, Fidel Castro, God and God's son Jesus, I think this is the author sense of humour which is strongly evident throughout, it's hard not to relate the characters to the real people.
In order to prevent conflict between JFK and Castro God sends his son to earth to solve it.
The author's knowledge and research shines through the characters and the way they think. A struggle of ideologies of two different people who wanted to achieve the same goal for the best of their people, one through a dictatorship and the other through democracy.
This booked had me hooked from page one , the descriptions and thoughts of the characters give the readers real food for thought .The author uses very clever examples of how one mans actions
can make you think about your beliefs and are they the right or can you change them for the better.
As the story developed the writers humour really comes through on a par with Tom Sharpe .The author places Castro in some excellent situations which both challenge and explain his reasoning and beliefs.
This is an excellent and enthralling read and I really hope that I can obtain or purchase the authors other publications.
December 20, 2013
Joao Cerqueria’s The Tragedy of Fidel Castro is at times cynical, at times hopeful, always satirical and never boring. In this book he recounts a fictionalized confrontation between the forces of Communism and the free world.
Fidel Castro is cast as a man obsessed with the fear of being betrayed by those he trusts, but also highly concerned about how he will be judged by historians. Convinced that the American President, referred to only as JFK, is trying to have him assassinated, Castro decides on a pre-emptive strike: Cuba invades the United States! In the meantime God tries to convince Jesus to go back to Earth to make peace between the combatants, although Jesus has strong doubts about whether his time has come and gone.
Writing in a prose that is almost lyrical, with magical, often dreamlike imagery that borrows from the Bible, mythology and classical literature, Cerqueria’s fable takes the reader on a wildly imaginative ride. Like all good satire, there are serious ideas behind the humour and the sarcasm. The novel delves into Castro’s tortured psyche, explores what makes some people willing to give their lives for a revolutionary idea, and even listens in on existential arguments between God and Jesus.
There is never a dull moment in this highly imaginative, and highly satisfying, tale.
Fidel Castro is cast as a man obsessed with the fear of being betrayed by those he trusts, but also highly concerned about how he will be judged by historians. Convinced that the American President, referred to only as JFK, is trying to have him assassinated, Castro decides on a pre-emptive strike: Cuba invades the United States! In the meantime God tries to convince Jesus to go back to Earth to make peace between the combatants, although Jesus has strong doubts about whether his time has come and gone.
Writing in a prose that is almost lyrical, with magical, often dreamlike imagery that borrows from the Bible, mythology and classical literature, Cerqueria’s fable takes the reader on a wildly imaginative ride. Like all good satire, there are serious ideas behind the humour and the sarcasm. The novel delves into Castro’s tortured psyche, explores what makes some people willing to give their lives for a revolutionary idea, and even listens in on existential arguments between God and Jesus.
There is never a dull moment in this highly imaginative, and highly satisfying, tale.
unfinished
January 7, 2014*I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
When I saw this book available at NetGalley without request, I decided to download it because its synopsis seemed interesting. An alternative reality where Jesus, aided by Our Lady of Fátima, helps avoid the conflict between Kennedy and Fidel Castro seemed like a story with so much potencial. And on top of that I immediately suspected (and later confirmed on Goodreads) that the author was portuguese, not only for his name, but for the fact that he included Our Lady of Fátima in the story.
Sadly, I could not finish it, and gave up at 26%. I could never really get into the story or connect to the characters and, honestly, it often happened that I would stop reading and could not remember what I had just finished reading... I got the feeling maybe I would have liked it better written in portuguese, cause it felt weird in english.
I really don't like giving up on readings, but with so many books on the bookcases and on the kindle, I simply cannot read just for the sake of reading. Maybe one day I'll give it another chance.
When I saw this book available at NetGalley without request, I decided to download it because its synopsis seemed interesting. An alternative reality where Jesus, aided by Our Lady of Fátima, helps avoid the conflict between Kennedy and Fidel Castro seemed like a story with so much potencial. And on top of that I immediately suspected (and later confirmed on Goodreads) that the author was portuguese, not only for his name, but for the fact that he included Our Lady of Fátima in the story.
Sadly, I could not finish it, and gave up at 26%. I could never really get into the story or connect to the characters and, honestly, it often happened that I would stop reading and could not remember what I had just finished reading... I got the feeling maybe I would have liked it better written in portuguese, cause it felt weird in english.
I really don't like giving up on readings, but with so many books on the bookcases and on the kindle, I simply cannot read just for the sake of reading. Maybe one day I'll give it another chance.
April 3, 2013
A magical satire in the tradition of Salman Rushdie's "The Satanic Verses," João Cerqueira's "The Tragedy of Fidel Castro" is both facetiously tongue-in-cheek and intensely serious in its critique of human nature. The author diagnoses both Marxism and capitalism as founded on false assumptions--the former as an attempt to change human nature, the latter as a ruthless means of exploiting it--but the main thrust of his indictment is focused on the hubris of his main character. Cerqueira's Fidel Castro is a man who has boxed himself into an existential corner, aware that his fate is all but sealed yet still trying to rationalize and justify his past deeds, until the only way out is to conceive of death as his apotheosis. Cerqueira writes with sly humor informed by razor-sharp insight into the pathologically authoritarian mindset of one who considers himself irreplaceable and essential to history. This will be an enjoyable read for those who pride themselves on being well-informed and being able to recognize life's absurdities. My thought upon finishing it: "If only the real Fidel could read and understand this book!"
February 5, 2014
As usual I didn't pay anything for this book but instead got it for free in exchange for a review. This time directly from the author. Also as usual though I will be absolutely candid in my assessment of it.
So I won't try to synopsize because you can read the description. What I will tell you is that this is deep and tangled satire. It's entirely possible that my lack of appreciation for it is due to a lack of patience on my part but I just could never grasp onto the flow of the narrative. I found my mind constantly wandering to some other topic as I tried to trudge through this book.
I'll leave it at that. If you have an inherent interest in the subject matter and love deep and ponderous satire then this book could be perfect for you but I just couldn't wrap my mind around it. Too bad too because it's got a nice cover. Oh well.
So I won't try to synopsize because you can read the description. What I will tell you is that this is deep and tangled satire. It's entirely possible that my lack of appreciation for it is due to a lack of patience on my part but I just could never grasp onto the flow of the narrative. I found my mind constantly wandering to some other topic as I tried to trudge through this book.
I'll leave it at that. If you have an inherent interest in the subject matter and love deep and ponderous satire then this book could be perfect for you but I just couldn't wrap my mind around it. Too bad too because it's got a nice cover. Oh well.
February 26, 2014
The Tragedy of Fidel Castro is a densely packed satire/fictional spin of the epic face off between JFK and Castro. At times the novel breaks into hilarity. Most of the time it traipses in the land of sacrilege. Always it straddles squarely the line of classic literary writing. Cerqueira's talent disproportionately portrays the character of Castro and drives even the most hardened Yankee to the point of sympathy. Cerqueira's brilliance rests in the art of intertwining side stories and sub-plots. Readers will likely consider the opening of the book daunting. However, surviving the gamut of the first chapter adequately prepares the reader for a fun-filled jaunt.
January 31, 2013
I have been waiting for this book to be translated from Portuguese into English ever since someone recommended it to me...the recommendation was well intended and spot on...it takes a while to get into, but once you begin to appreciate Cerqueira's style, you can lose yourself in the satire and marvel at its comedy, while enjoying the intelligence lying behind it...provocative and fun...now I just have to wait for more of his work to be translated (or learn Portuguese!)
April 9, 2013
I won this book in a giveaway. I guess I might call it humorous historical fantasy. Fact, fiction, mythology? intertwined to create a great story that made me laugh. You would think a novel about real people in real places would be real. But it's all made up because none of it goes together. Anyway, it's hard to describe this book, but I would highly recommend it if you want to read something unique.
February 9, 2013
If you're a reader who can't look beyond what you have in your mind about God, Jesus, JFK, or Castro, I 'm not judging you. I'm just not sure if you'll like this book. On the other hand, if you are looking for a fairly entertaining read that will challenge your thinking at least on a surface level, then give it a try.
I received this book to review. The opinions shared are 100% mine.
I received this book to review. The opinions shared are 100% mine.
April 16, 2013
Amazing book that mix the reality and fiction with a smart sense of humour. It is one of the most brilliant caricature of actual society expounding the inevitably contrast between one dictatorship regimen based on fallacy revolution against the capitalism more than ever declined. Do not miss it!
João Sousa
João Sousa
January 18, 2014
I enjoyed this book, by far the best passages are the ones where God, Jesus, an Fatima are having a conversations about what to do about the impending war between JFK and Castro. It reminds me a little bit of Voltaire and a little bit of Gabriel Garcia Marquesz. Fascinating.
April 10, 2013
brilliant book--the conversations between god and jesus are FUNNY; the ruminations of fidel are REAL...
May 18, 2013
Who ever thought I'd be laughing about religion and politics? Check out my review on my blog, Guiltless Reading:
http://guiltlessreading.blogspot.ca/2...
http://guiltlessreading.blogspot.ca/2...
January 30, 2013
The Tragedy of Fidel Castro: Joao Cerquerira
JFK and Fidel Castro have a long standing dislike for the way each one views their people, runs their government and their definition of capitalism, communism and the right way to bolster their own economies. When it becomes evident that a revolution is about to take place that the world is in serious trouble and these two leaders are about to battle to the end can God send Christ to mediate and stop what is about to happen? Listening to God speak with his son, Fatima things she is about to hear a philosophical tirade but does not. God was trying to pretend that nothing was happening on Earth while Fatima realizes and states out loud that he is the only one that can stop or prevent what is inevitable. Using his powers of persuasion and who know that God can do just that he convinces Christ that it is up to him. But, first let’s learn more about our two adversaries, their thinking and their individual strategies.
JFK is the leader of you might say the democratic world that we all live in here in America. Although adverse to Fidel’s political views JFK has been know to indulge in several transactions with him dealing with a bottle of bourbon or expensive cigars and other luxuries in life that both men enjoy. As the narrator relates JFK’s movements we learn about his feelings about free enterprise, his lack of understanding as to why Fidel bans it and his graphic description of the world as he sees it. The conflict between him and Fidel has consumed more time than it should and now he has decided on a new strategy hoping this will enlighten him to what Fidel is thinking and his inner most secrets. His plan to speak with a Cuban prisoner that is housed in one of our prisons hoping he will spill some vital information. But, when you hear the dialogue, listen to the discussion and find out the unusual ending to their visit you might wonder which side won and who was really being interrogated. As we now hear the voice and thoughts of Castro himself as he realizes that he is in deep trouble and about to be overthrown.
Castro looks around him and sees what is left of his country. He described the poverty, the cheap rooms to let and the public praise and private insults that he withstands. Castro is about meet with the Central Committee and needs to focus on convincing them that things are about to change for the better and that everything is fine. Telling about how wonderful their past year was but ignore the figures and the interests of the people that favor him and the fact that his people reject Capitalism does not create a captive audience. Stating the views that he wants his audience to voice he relates how happy everyone is with the progress of the revolution even though their have been some obstacles. But, then he takes on another tone and lets the audience know it is time to you might say meet fire with fire and approach dealing with JFK in another way. So, why not change the way he runs things, open the doors to tourists and hopefully reap the benefits. But, like all groups questions come and his answers given and everyone seems to be appeased at least for the moment. The meeting completed and feeling he accomplished his goals questions arise that make him think about what will others think about his society and what image will Cuba portray to the world?
Addressing the people we hear his thoughts on projected to his citizens, preying on their present problems, stating their future and hoping to stifle capitalism by as the author writes: “ Asphyxiate the economy and that hard times were in store for all citizens. He even preyed on their fears and reminded them that the end result would be slavery but in the end if all went well and the crisis averted with their help everyone would be rewarded. Fear, brainwashed and wanting to believe him no one dared to show any dissent towards him and he managed to learn more about what the people were really thinking.
Just in case you think God is not watching he certainly is along with Christ as Varadero our prisoner finds his way back to Fidel hoping to find himself back in his good graces. But, like any leader and after the fantasy and real life encounters you begin to wonder what is real, whether Fidel is really sound in mind and why he is so tormented with his own actions and thoughts. As the author enlightens us to what Christ and God have witnessed and now he feels it is time to stop what is about to happen. For God, the concern with what is happening in Fidel’s regime and the “commandants illusions that the revolution would continue throughout his lifetime,” greatly worried and concerned God. Christ did not feel it was time to intervene and since he was the one chosen to mediate and assigned the case he was worried. As God too is concerned after hearing the conversation about the Castro-JFK war and the ramifications of doing nothing as not being an option or viable solution. As we listen to the banter between God and Christ, learning more about what each one thinks, their philosophies, complains and why their creation realizes that they were not molded out of clay and that woman were not made from a man’s rib. The conversation goes on and we wonder what people believe in and he comes up with the same realization most people and politicians do: what counts if money, power in the good life and wild parties. But, as all seniors and elderly state: that he is not finished yet and then you have to read it to understand as Christ explains his role and what he won’t be and will try to do. So, which one is responsible for us?
Next, Fatima comes back into the picture as JFK and his counselor reappear trying to set traps for Fidel and his soldiers. Author Joan Cerqueira brings to light in a unique and creative fashion the inner most thoughts of Cuba’s leader and his hope for the revolution to continue throughout his lifetime. Envision Fidel dancing with a Cuban Spy and thinking impure thoughts. Hear God warn Christ that a war is inevitable on Earth and he has no choice but to rise to the call and go down and stop it. There are many issues that are brought to light within this story as views on capitalism, politics, threats to the faith of man as this Portuguese author brilliantly relates the story of these two great leaders having it translated into English.
With God having so many problems we wonder if he is not like any other parent hoping to guide his son, explain his role and on the edge of begin “fired.” With Christ on Earth and things unfolding the story is hilarious in some respects and makes you stop and think in others. Then we hear more from JFK his true feelings about Castro, his analogy about A Bay Of Pigs and the Clint Eastwood movie, and his speech about the antichrist returning and preparing to invade. But, there is much more as the priest speaks his words, the people listen and the congregation is ripe and ready to do whatever he says. Learning that thanks to Castro society is divvied in factions with irreconcilable differences leading to the inevitable. So, the solution one society lead by one man and the other by another will fight and to the finish in the central square as if you were a spectator at a baseball of wrestling match.
But, the fun continues the fight is described as one leader receives a letter stating they tried to free the people from “capitalist oppression,” but in the end he feels it was well you decide when you read pages 78 and 79 followed by Castro’s rant in his own words as he tells of his triumphs, weakness and in the end after writing an 11 page you might say confession, rant or more about his efforts his final words, his sacrifices, and the questions he poses to his citizens make you wonder whether is really focused on what he did, understands the end result or is just delusional revealing in his words the reasons for his actions. What happens when he loses his memory enters a monastery and loses focus on where he is going and who he is? What happens is right out of a movie and the end result you just won’t believe. But, then Fatima gets the call she has been waiting for and God realizes that the time is now to take some action. Just how are they going to achieve this: Diplomacy? The conversation is really quite funny as God justifies how he will handle this, what he will do and how he things the things should be handled. Since I promised I would not tell what he will do and people have to learn as JFK and Castro need to see the light themselves you will have to learn what happens by reading this novel yourself. What does Christ see when he returns to Earth this time as he waits to meet Fatima who seems to be running late. But, when she finally arrives their meeting is quite enlightening bringing to light things that many of us have learned about religion in the past, the fact that someone in Castro’s camp is not to be trusted and what their many observations. The end and who wins the revolution or the war you have to read and learn whether Christ succeeded, what lessons either leader, if any learned. What about JFK and his army as opposed to Castro’s? Which was stronger what about the wins and loses? Who had the advantage? What part does the devil play? Whose side is he on and can he really be trusted? The end and the final blows and what happens you decide when you read The Tragedy of Fidel Castro.
Fran Lewis: reviewer
JFK and Fidel Castro have a long standing dislike for the way each one views their people, runs their government and their definition of capitalism, communism and the right way to bolster their own economies. When it becomes evident that a revolution is about to take place that the world is in serious trouble and these two leaders are about to battle to the end can God send Christ to mediate and stop what is about to happen? Listening to God speak with his son, Fatima things she is about to hear a philosophical tirade but does not. God was trying to pretend that nothing was happening on Earth while Fatima realizes and states out loud that he is the only one that can stop or prevent what is inevitable. Using his powers of persuasion and who know that God can do just that he convinces Christ that it is up to him. But, first let’s learn more about our two adversaries, their thinking and their individual strategies.
JFK is the leader of you might say the democratic world that we all live in here in America. Although adverse to Fidel’s political views JFK has been know to indulge in several transactions with him dealing with a bottle of bourbon or expensive cigars and other luxuries in life that both men enjoy. As the narrator relates JFK’s movements we learn about his feelings about free enterprise, his lack of understanding as to why Fidel bans it and his graphic description of the world as he sees it. The conflict between him and Fidel has consumed more time than it should and now he has decided on a new strategy hoping this will enlighten him to what Fidel is thinking and his inner most secrets. His plan to speak with a Cuban prisoner that is housed in one of our prisons hoping he will spill some vital information. But, when you hear the dialogue, listen to the discussion and find out the unusual ending to their visit you might wonder which side won and who was really being interrogated. As we now hear the voice and thoughts of Castro himself as he realizes that he is in deep trouble and about to be overthrown.
Castro looks around him and sees what is left of his country. He described the poverty, the cheap rooms to let and the public praise and private insults that he withstands. Castro is about meet with the Central Committee and needs to focus on convincing them that things are about to change for the better and that everything is fine. Telling about how wonderful their past year was but ignore the figures and the interests of the people that favor him and the fact that his people reject Capitalism does not create a captive audience. Stating the views that he wants his audience to voice he relates how happy everyone is with the progress of the revolution even though their have been some obstacles. But, then he takes on another tone and lets the audience know it is time to you might say meet fire with fire and approach dealing with JFK in another way. So, why not change the way he runs things, open the doors to tourists and hopefully reap the benefits. But, like all groups questions come and his answers given and everyone seems to be appeased at least for the moment. The meeting completed and feeling he accomplished his goals questions arise that make him think about what will others think about his society and what image will Cuba portray to the world?
Addressing the people we hear his thoughts on projected to his citizens, preying on their present problems, stating their future and hoping to stifle capitalism by as the author writes: “ Asphyxiate the economy and that hard times were in store for all citizens. He even preyed on their fears and reminded them that the end result would be slavery but in the end if all went well and the crisis averted with their help everyone would be rewarded. Fear, brainwashed and wanting to believe him no one dared to show any dissent towards him and he managed to learn more about what the people were really thinking.
Just in case you think God is not watching he certainly is along with Christ as Varadero our prisoner finds his way back to Fidel hoping to find himself back in his good graces. But, like any leader and after the fantasy and real life encounters you begin to wonder what is real, whether Fidel is really sound in mind and why he is so tormented with his own actions and thoughts. As the author enlightens us to what Christ and God have witnessed and now he feels it is time to stop what is about to happen. For God, the concern with what is happening in Fidel’s regime and the “commandants illusions that the revolution would continue throughout his lifetime,” greatly worried and concerned God. Christ did not feel it was time to intervene and since he was the one chosen to mediate and assigned the case he was worried. As God too is concerned after hearing the conversation about the Castro-JFK war and the ramifications of doing nothing as not being an option or viable solution. As we listen to the banter between God and Christ, learning more about what each one thinks, their philosophies, complains and why their creation realizes that they were not molded out of clay and that woman were not made from a man’s rib. The conversation goes on and we wonder what people believe in and he comes up with the same realization most people and politicians do: what counts if money, power in the good life and wild parties. But, as all seniors and elderly state: that he is not finished yet and then you have to read it to understand as Christ explains his role and what he won’t be and will try to do. So, which one is responsible for us?
Next, Fatima comes back into the picture as JFK and his counselor reappear trying to set traps for Fidel and his soldiers. Author Joan Cerqueira brings to light in a unique and creative fashion the inner most thoughts of Cuba’s leader and his hope for the revolution to continue throughout his lifetime. Envision Fidel dancing with a Cuban Spy and thinking impure thoughts. Hear God warn Christ that a war is inevitable on Earth and he has no choice but to rise to the call and go down and stop it. There are many issues that are brought to light within this story as views on capitalism, politics, threats to the faith of man as this Portuguese author brilliantly relates the story of these two great leaders having it translated into English.
With God having so many problems we wonder if he is not like any other parent hoping to guide his son, explain his role and on the edge of begin “fired.” With Christ on Earth and things unfolding the story is hilarious in some respects and makes you stop and think in others. Then we hear more from JFK his true feelings about Castro, his analogy about A Bay Of Pigs and the Clint Eastwood movie, and his speech about the antichrist returning and preparing to invade. But, there is much more as the priest speaks his words, the people listen and the congregation is ripe and ready to do whatever he says. Learning that thanks to Castro society is divvied in factions with irreconcilable differences leading to the inevitable. So, the solution one society lead by one man and the other by another will fight and to the finish in the central square as if you were a spectator at a baseball of wrestling match.
But, the fun continues the fight is described as one leader receives a letter stating they tried to free the people from “capitalist oppression,” but in the end he feels it was well you decide when you read pages 78 and 79 followed by Castro’s rant in his own words as he tells of his triumphs, weakness and in the end after writing an 11 page you might say confession, rant or more about his efforts his final words, his sacrifices, and the questions he poses to his citizens make you wonder whether is really focused on what he did, understands the end result or is just delusional revealing in his words the reasons for his actions. What happens when he loses his memory enters a monastery and loses focus on where he is going and who he is? What happens is right out of a movie and the end result you just won’t believe. But, then Fatima gets the call she has been waiting for and God realizes that the time is now to take some action. Just how are they going to achieve this: Diplomacy? The conversation is really quite funny as God justifies how he will handle this, what he will do and how he things the things should be handled. Since I promised I would not tell what he will do and people have to learn as JFK and Castro need to see the light themselves you will have to learn what happens by reading this novel yourself. What does Christ see when he returns to Earth this time as he waits to meet Fatima who seems to be running late. But, when she finally arrives their meeting is quite enlightening bringing to light things that many of us have learned about religion in the past, the fact that someone in Castro’s camp is not to be trusted and what their many observations. The end and who wins the revolution or the war you have to read and learn whether Christ succeeded, what lessons either leader, if any learned. What about JFK and his army as opposed to Castro’s? Which was stronger what about the wins and loses? Who had the advantage? What part does the devil play? Whose side is he on and can he really be trusted? The end and the final blows and what happens you decide when you read The Tragedy of Fidel Castro.
Fran Lewis: reviewer
July 4, 2017
Luego de la muerte de Fidel Castro descubrí esta novela en una librería cerca a casa, imagino que la pusieron en "Novedades" con motivo de la muerte del personaje, pero confieso que lo que me llevó a comprarla fue la sinopsis: Fidel, JFC, Jesús y los pastores de Fátima .... No decepcionó!!! Ironía al 1000%.
November 11, 2019
DNF at about 60%. I tried, I really did. But it was dull, wordy and unfunny.
February 11, 2025
Highly irreverent satire about the Cuban missile crisis. Didn’t work for me.
April 28, 2025
This was such a refreshing and witty read.
Many thanks to Greenleaf Book Group and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Many thanks to Greenleaf Book Group and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 3, 2013
Just when I begin to think I've seen everything that can be done with magic realism, along comes a book that shows another use - in this case magic realist satire. The scene is set for this extraordinary book with a preface explaining that the book is set in a fictional time and place and all the characters are entirely fictional: Hence, Christ has nothing to do with Jesus Christ, the son of god.... God does not represent God.... as no one has have ever been able to depict Him. JFK is someone other than an American president with the same initials... Fidel Castro perhaps has some similarities with the revolutionary leader and dictator...
Things are and are not real. What is real is the book's focus on the complexities of human (and possibly divine) nature.
Although Christ, God and JFK all have major roles, the central character is Fidel Castro, who is in many ways seen as a classic flawed tragic hero: "Are you aware that it is you who will destroy your work? That you'll end up resembling those that you overthrew?"
"This is the price I have to pay. My tragedy."
But this book is more than a tragedy about the fall of a hero. It is a commentary on the politics and fallacies of communism and capitalism, on religion and the inability of the divine to change human nature. That could be very dry, but it is a commentary delivered through the absurd and is laugh-out-loud funny in places, such as when Castro dons a pink dress and high heels in order to observe decadence in a night club or when a town threatened with invasion divides into two factions led by the priest (the Padristas) and by the local Madam (Putistas), a division which is to be decided by a wrestling match between the two leaders. In this last example the author foreshadows the duel between JFK and Castro at the end of the book.
The book is multi-layered and references all sorts of philosophies, as well as stimulating the reader's own thoughts. It manages to be a book of ideas, whilst moving the plot forward, making it an easy book to read and a good book to ponder.
I have no doubt that some people will be offended by this book. A warning should be placed on the cover directed at people who don't like authority (divine or human) to be mocked or indeed people who have difficulty with magic realism and the absurd. But if like me you are someone who grew up on Monty Python, love magic realism and enjoy contemplating ideas, then I urge you to go out and buy this book immediately.
Note I received this book from the publisher in return for an unbiased review.
This review first appeared on http://www.magic-realism.net
Things are and are not real. What is real is the book's focus on the complexities of human (and possibly divine) nature.
Although Christ, God and JFK all have major roles, the central character is Fidel Castro, who is in many ways seen as a classic flawed tragic hero: "Are you aware that it is you who will destroy your work? That you'll end up resembling those that you overthrew?"
"This is the price I have to pay. My tragedy."
But this book is more than a tragedy about the fall of a hero. It is a commentary on the politics and fallacies of communism and capitalism, on religion and the inability of the divine to change human nature. That could be very dry, but it is a commentary delivered through the absurd and is laugh-out-loud funny in places, such as when Castro dons a pink dress and high heels in order to observe decadence in a night club or when a town threatened with invasion divides into two factions led by the priest (the Padristas) and by the local Madam (Putistas), a division which is to be decided by a wrestling match between the two leaders. In this last example the author foreshadows the duel between JFK and Castro at the end of the book.
The book is multi-layered and references all sorts of philosophies, as well as stimulating the reader's own thoughts. It manages to be a book of ideas, whilst moving the plot forward, making it an easy book to read and a good book to ponder.
I have no doubt that some people will be offended by this book. A warning should be placed on the cover directed at people who don't like authority (divine or human) to be mocked or indeed people who have difficulty with magic realism and the absurd. But if like me you are someone who grew up on Monty Python, love magic realism and enjoy contemplating ideas, then I urge you to go out and buy this book immediately.
Note I received this book from the publisher in return for an unbiased review.
This review first appeared on http://www.magic-realism.net
December 8, 2015
Find this review at Forever Lost in Literature!
**I received a copy of this book from the author, Joao Cerqueira, in exchange for an honest review.**
This was a hefty read. Not in length, as it comes in at a slight 188 pages, but rather in content, for this book is overflowing with political and religious satire and complex writing.
You are warned that this is a fictional book from the very start of the novel, and that fact should definitely not be forgotten. This is a very hard book to summarize, so I will provide a link to Goodreads for those who wish to read a quick summary of the book before continuing this review. If not, let's dive in!
The main characters of this book are JFK, Fidel Castro, God, and Jesus - but none of them are the real people they're modeled after since this book is extremely satirical, and I certainly found myself laughing along the way at their antics. Just the thought of Fidel Castro and JFK in a heated out-gifting war is hilarious. Our immediate introduction to this book is a bit daunting and some disorienting as we try to figure out exactly what Jesus and God are doing and talking about, but eventually, as Fidel and JFK are introduced, we are slowly introduced to the main story and themes themselves.
This is not a light, easy read - this is a book where every single sentence is important and holds important meanings, and some of these sentences are long. These sentences became a bit hard to follow at times and I often found myself rereading sentences or paragraphs to make sure I understood what was being said. I've read a fair share of satirical books and publications, but never anything quite like The Tragedy of Fidel Castro. Cerqueira is an obviously talented writer who knows exactly what he wants to say and wastes no words in saying it.
Cerqueira is fair in his satire, for he takes aim at the capitalism of America, the communism in Cuba, people in general, and a fair amount of different religions. Everything was equally up for the mocking, and I loved it. He incorporates striking elements of magical realism that truly lights up the novel and brings life to it.
This isn't exactly a book that I would pick up for pleasure, however. This book is definitely not for anyone, but if you're feeling snarky and mocking and want some good satire, this is a great book to pick up. Overall, I am giving The Tragedy of Fidel Castro four stars, for although is wasn't exactly my cup of tea, I still greatly appreciated the strong themes and writing, as well as the intricate characters Cerqueira has created.
**I received a copy of this book from the author, Joao Cerqueira, in exchange for an honest review.**
This was a hefty read. Not in length, as it comes in at a slight 188 pages, but rather in content, for this book is overflowing with political and religious satire and complex writing.
You are warned that this is a fictional book from the very start of the novel, and that fact should definitely not be forgotten. This is a very hard book to summarize, so I will provide a link to Goodreads for those who wish to read a quick summary of the book before continuing this review. If not, let's dive in!
The main characters of this book are JFK, Fidel Castro, God, and Jesus - but none of them are the real people they're modeled after since this book is extremely satirical, and I certainly found myself laughing along the way at their antics. Just the thought of Fidel Castro and JFK in a heated out-gifting war is hilarious. Our immediate introduction to this book is a bit daunting and some disorienting as we try to figure out exactly what Jesus and God are doing and talking about, but eventually, as Fidel and JFK are introduced, we are slowly introduced to the main story and themes themselves.
This is not a light, easy read - this is a book where every single sentence is important and holds important meanings, and some of these sentences are long. These sentences became a bit hard to follow at times and I often found myself rereading sentences or paragraphs to make sure I understood what was being said. I've read a fair share of satirical books and publications, but never anything quite like The Tragedy of Fidel Castro. Cerqueira is an obviously talented writer who knows exactly what he wants to say and wastes no words in saying it.
Cerqueira is fair in his satire, for he takes aim at the capitalism of America, the communism in Cuba, people in general, and a fair amount of different religions. Everything was equally up for the mocking, and I loved it. He incorporates striking elements of magical realism that truly lights up the novel and brings life to it.
This isn't exactly a book that I would pick up for pleasure, however. This book is definitely not for anyone, but if you're feeling snarky and mocking and want some good satire, this is a great book to pick up. Overall, I am giving The Tragedy of Fidel Castro four stars, for although is wasn't exactly my cup of tea, I still greatly appreciated the strong themes and writing, as well as the intricate characters Cerqueira has created.
January 18, 2015
This was received from the author for an honest review
I just don't know what happened, maybe I waited too long, or I just read too many that were similar. I received this about a year ago I think. One of my goals for winter vacation was to at least finish the review books that had been sitting around for too long. So I decided to go with this since I thought that it was something that was going to be a blast. By the time I finally got to this, I already read like four or five magical realist, black humor novels, that also have to do with communism. Except that they took place in China.
However, that doesn't mean that this was a particularly bad novel. It's a satire, not as morbid or screwed up as most political satires, especially the ones I read. It's actually quite vibrant and whimsical compared to most. God, Jesus, JFK, and Fidel Castro lead this novel. The novel is divided into three or four parts (does the prologue count? because then it would be four). It is all centered during, I believe, the Cold War. During the JFK presidency then. God, Jesus, and a girl named Fatima see something is brewing on Earth, a conflict between JFK and Fidel Castro. They go down to fix this problem before the world gets pulled into another destructive world war.
In the beginning I enjoyed it, then set it aside for awhile, which was probably a big mistake. I finally got back to it and there's just something about this book, despite it's meaty prose and political and religious soliloquies (more like speeches) coming from the characters, it's as if this novel sort of like evaporated from my mind the next day. It's the oddest thing. Maybe I'm just losing it. I think that Cerqueira is a talented writer, his words are great, poetic and sarcastic when it needs to be, able to slip in the humor and sharpness of tongue. The ending, I loved it. But I don't know, maybe it was because it was written in third person? There are certain books that are written in third person that seem to make me feel like the novel is the densest thing ever.
Maybe it wasn't for me? Because then I think about 1Q84, magical realist, third person. Maybe third person isn't for this genre. It wasn't my cup of tea, but I still give it my positivity because it did what it was suppose to do, it got a bit of smiles from me with its occasional absurdity. Especially the part where Fidel dressed as a woman and got tossed around. (I forgot how to spell the spy's name and somehow deleted the book off my kindle. Woops.)
Rating: 3/5
I just don't know what happened, maybe I waited too long, or I just read too many that were similar. I received this about a year ago I think. One of my goals for winter vacation was to at least finish the review books that had been sitting around for too long. So I decided to go with this since I thought that it was something that was going to be a blast. By the time I finally got to this, I already read like four or five magical realist, black humor novels, that also have to do with communism. Except that they took place in China.
However, that doesn't mean that this was a particularly bad novel. It's a satire, not as morbid or screwed up as most political satires, especially the ones I read. It's actually quite vibrant and whimsical compared to most. God, Jesus, JFK, and Fidel Castro lead this novel. The novel is divided into three or four parts (does the prologue count? because then it would be four). It is all centered during, I believe, the Cold War. During the JFK presidency then. God, Jesus, and a girl named Fatima see something is brewing on Earth, a conflict between JFK and Fidel Castro. They go down to fix this problem before the world gets pulled into another destructive world war.
In the beginning I enjoyed it, then set it aside for awhile, which was probably a big mistake. I finally got back to it and there's just something about this book, despite it's meaty prose and political and religious soliloquies (more like speeches) coming from the characters, it's as if this novel sort of like evaporated from my mind the next day. It's the oddest thing. Maybe I'm just losing it. I think that Cerqueira is a talented writer, his words are great, poetic and sarcastic when it needs to be, able to slip in the humor and sharpness of tongue. The ending, I loved it. But I don't know, maybe it was because it was written in third person? There are certain books that are written in third person that seem to make me feel like the novel is the densest thing ever.
Maybe it wasn't for me? Because then I think about 1Q84, magical realist, third person. Maybe third person isn't for this genre. It wasn't my cup of tea, but I still give it my positivity because it did what it was suppose to do, it got a bit of smiles from me with its occasional absurdity. Especially the part where Fidel dressed as a woman and got tossed around. (I forgot how to spell the spy's name and somehow deleted the book off my kindle. Woops.)
Rating: 3/5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews