Reina writes to Constancia about the hardships in Cuba, mentioning brain surgeons who spend weekends baking birthday cakes to earn extra money. Constancia reflects that she could never have been content living in Cuba after 1959. Investigate Cuba's current economic conditions and analyze how these economic factors influence the lives of Reina and Dulce.

In an interview with the Chicago Sun-Times, Garcia shared that during her time in Hawaii, near a bird sanctuary, she became fascinated with outcast ducks and started exploring naturalism. Birds hold significant symbolism in this novel. Look into the birds Garcia mentions and contemplate their importance in the narrative she weaves. Keep in mind that birds migrate and face the threat of extinction.

The custody dispute over Elian Gonzalez was a major news story in early 2000. Following Fidel Castro's rise to power, many Cubans moved to the U.S. Examine the various U.S. immigration policies toward Cubans and how these policies have evolved from 1959 to the present.

Near the novel's conclusion, Constancia seeks advice from a santero. Explore the Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria and discuss its impact on Constancia's decisions and the actions of other characters in the story.