The novel explores the issue of migration and escape from the point of view of a young boy. What significance does his age and/or gender have in the overall message the novel tries to convey? How might the story change with an older protagonist?

Issues of gender are slightly touched upon in the novel. Compare Julian’s mother, Angelita, and Dolores, to Julian’s father, Caballo, and Tomas, respectively. How does each comparison highlight the themes of survival and sacrifice? What role does gender play in this discussion?

There are several “overlaps” or commonalities between Julian’s life in Havana to his life in Miami. For example, Tomas reminds him of Bebo, and Ramirez is like the little woman trying to catch him. What other commonalities exist between both places? How is his life in America different? How is this significant to Julian’s character development?