I don't remember ever learning about Operation Pedro Pan in school. Did I fall asleep that day or was it never covered? Who knows, but I'm glad Christina Gonzalez has made the topic accessible for adults and kids alike.


In 1961 most girls are dreaming about boys and parties. Lucia Alvarez is one of those girls, but she is also dealing with the Communist revolution. Soldiers appear in her small Cuban town. Neighbors disappear and her family is being watched. If you don't completely agree with Castro's ideals than you are an enemy and can't be trusted.

As the revolution gains momentum Lucia's parents make the decision(like many families) to get their children on a plane and send them somewhere.They had no idea where they would end up or f they would be cared for but knew it had to be safer than staying in Cuba. This became the reality for more than 14, 000 unaccompanied children.

The Red Umbrella is a fabulous book to read in your classroom (grades 3 and up) or at home with your child. So many layers to talk about. Ms. Gonzalez is a wonderful writer. I think it took me all of a day to read it, I couldn't put it down. As a mom it was gut wrenching to think about the decision her parents made to send her and her brother away. Not knowing if they would be alright or where they would end up. Ms. Gonzalez did a fantastic job of showing the different emotional sides of the story. Excellent book. I got it from the library but know I need to own it. I love when a book is so good it makes me spend my hard earned money. Until next time.