Topics for Further Study
Delve into the life and career of one of the musicians featured in the book, like Celia Cruz, Pérez Prado, Tito Rodriguez, or Machito. Compare and contrast their experiences with those of the fictional character, Cesar Castillo.
During the 1940s and 1950s, Cuba was a favored vacation spot for American tourists. Conduct research to create a mock travel brochure for Havana in 1948, detailing what attractions tourists could enjoy and the costs of various activities at the time, using actual historical prices.
Watch the film For Love or Country: The Arturo Sandoval Story, which tells the story of the renowned jazz trumpeter who left Cuba in 1990. Using insights from the movie, discuss how both the political and musical landscapes have evolved since the Castillo brothers emigrated in the 1940s.
A significant moment in the lives of the Castillo brothers is their brief appearance on the I Love Lucy show. Watch a current sitcom and write a short story imagining what old age might be like for one of the minor characters who is not a main cast member.
Reach out to the Congressperson representing your district and request an explanation of the current United States policy toward Cuba.
Investigate Latin American dance styles, and then teach your class how to dance the mambo. Use recordings from the 1950s or the soundtrack from the movie The Mambo Kings as your musical accompaniment.
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