In 90 Miles to Havana by Enrique Flores-Galbis, Julian and his two older brothers, Gordo and Alquilino, travel to Miami in the 1960s as part of Operation Pedro Pan, a covert mission to evacuate Cuban children during Fidel Castro's regime; they navigate challenges in a refugee camp and Julian ultimately becomes a hero, reuniting with his family in Connecticut.

90 Miles to Havana by Enrique Flores-Galbis is a compelling historical novel praised for its vivid depiction of Cuban refugees and their struggles in 1960s America. Readers appreciate its captivating narrative and well-drawn characters. Some critics note the pacing can be uneven, but the emotional depth and cultural authenticity resonate strongly.

Ideal for middle-grade readers who enjoy historical fiction, 90 Miles to Havana by Enrique Flores-Galbis appeals to those intrigued by the Cuban Revolution and child immigration. Fans of Refugee by Alan Gratz and Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan will find this novel equally compelling.

Adventurous / Emotional / Melancholic / Hopeful / Challenging

- 90 Miles to Havana is inspired by the real-life experiences of Enrique Flores-Galbis, who came to the United States as part of Operation Pedro Pan, a mass exodus of over 14,000 Cuban children to the U.S. in the early 1960s.
- Enrique Flores-Galbis included his own artwork in 90 Miles to Havana, as he is not only an author but also a talented painter.
- The book was awarded the Pura Belpré Author Honor in 2011, recognizing its powerful narrative and rich cultural representation.

**Julian**  
The protagonist and first-person narrator, a clever boy who enjoys inventing, drawing, and sailing. He struggles to step out from the shadow of his older brothers and strives for independence.

**Alquilino**  
Julian's eldest brother, known for his careful and thoughtful nature. Often responsible for mediating conflicts and providing protection, especially for Julian.

**Gordo**  
Julian's impulsive and aggressive older brother, whose real name is Eduardo. He is very protective of his family, though his actions sometimes lead to challenges for them.

**Caballo**  
A former classmate from Havana who asserts control at the refugee camp in Miami. Though often cruel and dictatorial, he occasionally shows a more humane side.

**Angelita**  
The boys' neighbor from Havana and Julian’s friend, confident and headstrong. She helps Julian in standing up against bullies and values family deeply.

Enrique Flores-Galbis

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

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Overview

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90 Miles to Havana Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-8

90 Miles to Havana Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-17

90 Miles to Havana Chapters 9-17 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 18-26

90 Miles to Havana Chapters 18-26 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-33

90 Miles to Havana Chapters 27-33 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 34-41

90 Miles to Havana Chapters 34-41 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

90 Miles to Havana Character Analysis

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Themes

90 Miles to Havana Themes

Symbols & Motifs

90 Miles to Havana Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

90 Miles to Havana Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

90 Miles to Havana Essay Topics

90 Miles to Havana Teaching Unit

Introduction

90 Miles to Havana Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

90 Miles to Havana Reading Context

During Reading

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90 Miles to Havana Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

90 Miles to Havana Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

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90 Miles to Havana Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

90 Miles to Havana Activities

Essay Questions

90 Miles to Havana Essay Questions

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90 Miles to Havana Cumulative Exam Questions

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90 Miles to Havana Exam Answer Key

90 Miles to Havana

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