Is your book, The Red Umbrella, based on one person’s true story?
No, although it is loosely based on the experiences of my parents, mother-in-law and many of the other 14,000 children who participated in Operation Pedro Pan, it is not based on one specific person. However, I will admit that while writing the story it sometimes felt like my grandmother was whispering little tidbits of information into my ear and guiding me along the way.
Why did you want to write this book?
Obviously, this is a personal story and part of my family history. In fact, it’s an important part of American history and yet there wasn’t much written about it, especially from the point of view of the children who experienced it. The book showcases how the U.S. has always been a haven for those seeking refuge from injustice and oppression and how average Americans have stepped up to help those in need, even if they were foreigners in our country. I also wanted to show the pride immigrants (in this case Cubans) have for their homeland, but how, in the end, family is what matters most.
How did you do research for The Red Umbrella?
Well, my first sources of information were my parents, mother-in-law, grandfather and the rest of my extended family. I also spoke to others who were part of Operation Pedro Pan to hear about their experiences. In addition, I read newspapers of the time (both Cuban and American) to gain a perspective as to what was happening and how it was being reported. In fact, I incorporated actual American newspaper headlines at the beginning of each chapter to give the reader an understanding of what was truly happening in Cuba (the newspaper dates follow the dates in the story).
What was the hardest part of writing this book? Why?
The hardest part was the scene where the parents have to say farewell to their children, not knowing if they will see them again. It was difficult to write because I needed to tell the story accurately with the pain, desperation and hope the characters felt. I think about my family and I still don’t know if I could make the same decision my grandparents made, but I’m very thankful that they had the courage to do it.
What was the easiest part? Why?
The easiest parts to write were the humorous scenes in Nebraska. I felt like a lot of the elements from my childhood crept into those scenes. Plus they made me laugh when I wrote them and that’s always a good sign.
What is the central message you hope readers will take away from the book?
That home is not a physical place. It’s where you feel you belong, where you are surrounded by people who love and accept you.
Why do you write for a middle-grade/YA audience?
I think this is the time in a person’s life when you search for who you want to be in the future and books can be a huge influence. Plus, inside I think I’m still a fourteen year old girl.
Is there going to be a movie based on The Red Umbrella?
We can only hope! Actually, there has been a bit of interest already (and the book isn’t even out), so we’ll see what happens. For now, I’m working on my book trailer (it’s like a one minute mini-movie), so watch for that!
What’s the best advice you can give aspiring writers?
Join a critique group. You can find critique groups online or through writers’ associations. The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) is a wonderful resource for information and can help locate a group in your area. My critique group has helped (and continues to help) me become a better writer. Writing can sometimes be a lonely job, with only the characters that live in your imagination to keep you company. A critique group not only helps you with your writing by telling you what works and what doesn’t, they are “in the trenches” with you so it becomes a support network too.
