FINDING MANANA A Memoir of a Cuban Exodus

Award-winning journalist Mirta Ojito recounts her family's escape from Cuba via the Mariel Boatlift in 1980. Ojito narrates the chapters that pertain to her personal history. In contrast, Juan Arturo voices the stories of other refugees and the political and social events that led to the 1980 exodus. Ojito recalls her hesitation to leave the only home she'd ever known, but circumstances left her family no choice. She infuses her narration with the conflicted emotions she faced as a teenager. Arturo narrates in a clear, strong voice that is perfect for conveying the more journalistic chapters. However, he recounts the stories of individual refugees with heartfelt emotions, conveying their desperation to escape communism and the fear they faced at pursuing freedom. Ojito writes a moving yet informative narrative. A.M. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2025]