Yuri, a 16-year-old orphan, navigates the ebb and flow of life in Havana, in Ivonne Lamazares’s critically acclaimed novel, “The Tilting House”. Set in the years following the fall of the Berlin Wall, this story unwraps the poignant tale of Yuri’s search for identity amidst the chaos of Communist Cuba.
A World Big Enough to Forget
Named after Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, young Yuri dreams of the stars while living a grounded life with her devoutly religious Aunt Ruth. In a house rich with untold stories, Yuri harbors aspirations to attend Cuba’s prestigious Lenin School. However, the tranquility of her world is shattered by the arrival of a family member from “la Yuma”—America.
Secrets Untold and Unveiling Truths
The appearance of Mariela, an unexpected visitor from the U.S., unearths buried family histories. As the narrative unfolds, Yuri learns that Mariela, sent to live in the U.S. during Operation Pedro Pan, is not her cousin but her sister. The novel cleverly delves into themes of exile and belonging, striking a note with anyone who has ever longed for a distant home.
Echoes of a Tumultuous Past
Through exquisitely detailed and historically enriched storytelling, Lamazares paints an evocative picture of Cuba, both as it stands and through its citizens’ memories. Yuri’s story, steeped in cultural and political conflict, portrays a vibrant land caught in the winds of change. According to Times Colonist, the novel’s vivid imagery and compelling character arcs make it a must-read for those intrigued by Cuba’s enigmatic allure.
From Chaos to Tranquility
In moments of brash creativity and absurd invention, such as Mariela’s art projects, Lamazares showcases the resilience and humor inherent in Cuban spirit. Yet, it’s in the quiet revelation of truths, as Yuri learns to embrace her past, that “The Tilting House” truly shines.
Journey’s End and a New Beginning
Amidst personal upheaval and societal arrests, Yuri’s journey eventually leads her to the United States. Her return to Cuba symbolizes not just the bridging of past and present, but the converging paths of identity and understanding. Stepping back upon Cuban soil, she finds clarity and a tentative peace, uncovering lessons only a life rooted in Havana could teach.
“The Tilting House” stands as an illuminating exploration of family, identity, and resilience, essayed against the backdrop of a country brimming with life and history.