Ashé
Thirteen-year-old Marisol has spent her whole life dreaming of one thing: dancing Oshún.
Confident, determined, and surrounded by her three best friends, she enters Havana’s most prestigious youth rumba programme believing she already knows who she’s meant to become.
But when the roles are announced, everything changes.
Instead of the radiant Oshún, Marisol is chosen to represent Yemayá, the powerful guardian of the sea. Heartbroken and convinced a mistake has been made, she begins to pull away from the people who love her most, allowing jealousy to grow where friendship once flourished.
As rehearsals continue beneath the colourful streets of Havana, guided by wise elders, thunderous rumba drums and the stories of Cuba’s Afro-Cuban traditions, Marisol discovers that the dance she wanted isn’t always the dance she needs.
Filled with music, friendship, family, humour and heart, Ashé is a coming-of-age story inspired by Cuban culture, where every dance carries a story and every story carries a lesson.
stories from Cuba
Are you ready to experience the real Cuba?
Stories from Cuba is a collection of seven captivating tales that transport you straight to the colorful streets of Havana and beyond.
Inspired by her travels across the island, Renée Rodney captures the sounds, flavors, and emotions of everyday Cuban life through vivid storytelling.
Each piece was lovingly edited by Lisandra García, a well-known Cuban YouTuber whose local voice brings authenticity and rhythm to every page.
Here’s the lineup of stories que te van a encantar (that you are going to love):
Corazones en La Habana (Hearts in Havana)
Lose yourself in a romance as colourful and lively as Havana itself.
El Sueño de Yolanda (Yolanda's Dream)
Cheer for Yolanda as she pursues her dreams of musical stardom against all odds.
La Boda Desastrosa (The Disastrous Wedding)
Get ready to laugh with a wedding story that’s quintessentially Cuban – chaotic and full of life!
La Historia de Hache (The Story of Hache)
Take a walk through Havana’s streets from the unique perspective of Hache, a stray dog.
El Desafío en la Escuela (The Challenge at School)
Dive into a school story where bravery and friendship overcome bullying.
La Búsqueda de Raíces (The Search for Roots)
Join Theresa on her heartfelt journey to discover her Cuban heritage.
Vida de un Jinetero (Life of a Jinetero)
Get an insider’s view into the life of Alexis, a jinetero with a heart of gold and a story to share.
But that's not all! Each story is written in English and Spanish and comes packed with:
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Plot Summaries: To ensure you catch every twist and turn.
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Vocabulary lists: To get you talking like a true cubano.
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Questions: To test your comprehension.
Ideal for beginner and intermediate Spanish learners or anyone captivated by the Cuban culture.
Grab your copy of "Stories from Cuba" now!
