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The Optimistic Cuban

by José SotolongoHistria Fiction

$19.99

The Optimistic Cuban by Jose Sotolongo In 1959 Havana, middle-class student activist Fernando fights against the corrupt, U.S.-backed Batista regime. Initially elated by the success of Castro’s Communist Revolution, Fernando's excitement soon fades as he grapples with the harsh realities of the...

ISBN
978-1-59211-606-5

About This Book

The Optimistic Cuban by Jose Sotolongo

In 1959 Havana, middle-class student activist Fernando fights against the corrupt, U.S.-backed Batista regime. Initially elated by the success of Castro’s Communist Revolution, Fernando's excitement soon fades as he grapples with the harsh realities of the new government’s oppression.

Meanwhile, his beloved Julia and best friend Gustavo, who come from impoverished Black families, are hopeful that the Revolution will bring long-awaited social change. This difference in political beliefs creates friction, but Fernando’s feelings for Julia remain strong. When faced with challenges to his personal life and values, Fernando must navigate a world of divided loyalties, harsh political realities, and deep social divides.

As tensions mount, Fernando finds himself at a crossroads, torn between his homeland and a future elsewhere. Ultimately, he faces a choice that will test his beliefs, his loyalties, and the depth of his love.

José Sotolongo

About the Author

José Sotolongo — José Sotolongo was born in Cuba. His prose and poetry have appeared in several publications, including Atticus Review, The Cortland Review, Blue Fifth Review, The Southampton Review, and Third Coast. He has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and Best Small Fiction. The Scented Chrysalis, a novel, was released in 2019, and was nominated for a Lambda Literary Award. A third novel, Parallel Circuits, will be released in 2026. He lives in the Catskills of New York, where he gardens and tries to live peacefully with all the wildlife.

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