My book launch and signing in May generated the opportunity to look at these questions with dear friends and neighbors who attended. It became a celebration. Not only about publishing my book, but also an opportunity to discuss and connect personal experience with history.

Many said they related to the decades of historical eras that backdrop the story. Some said they connected to the personal challenges the story embodies. Others expressed interest in knowing more about the centuries of complex conflicts between our nation and Cuba, the depth of her fight for sovereignty, and the dynamics occurring now between our nations.  

More questions emerged: How did my life experiences and Cuba change me? Why is she important in the bigger scheme of things? What should our policy toward Cuba be and why?

As folks have been reading my book, many have reached out for further discussion and feedback. Thank you. Good dialogue feeds the soul and can generate new insights for all involved.    

With gratitude, I thank the Newaygo Book Store and owner, Krystal Johnson, for hosting and helping to make my launch a grand community building event.