BOOK REVIEW 'Cuba 15' is novel of culture clash

By STEPHANIE NOLASCO
BLUE JEAN ONLINE
"Cuba 15," by Nancy Osa (Delacorte Press, $15.95)
If you're looking for a book that consists of comedy, real-life events and the spirit of a feminist chica, then Nancy Osa's "Cuba 15" is the ideal novel for you. You don't need to be Cuban to appreciate this book; all readers will be able to relate to 15-year-old Violet's misunderstanding of her heritage and frustration at learning about her culture.
In modern-day Chicago, Violet's everyday life consists of dealing with physical insecurities, handling the unique traditions of Cubans and facing matters of the heart with a certain someone. Like any teen, Violet believes her life is complicated enough with such events without having to deal with her grandmother's insistence on having a quincea & ntilde;ero for her (a special coming-of-age celebration when girls turn 15). Not knowing anything of her Cuban heritage, Violet must now come to terms with a mysterious culture that often brings controversy and divides loved ones. Once Violet truly understands who she is, she must then learn to embrace the new life of a woman.
Common problem
Through her creative technique and refreshing writing style, Osa has immortalized a problem common among biracial and Hispanic teens. Osa succeeds in making fellow readers laugh, wonder and hunger to be part of Violet's world. Most important, Osa uses Violet's experiences to leave readers with an important message: "The past helps us understand the present and future."
"Cuba 15" has already received a great deal of recognition from many sources. Julia Alvarez, acclaimed author of "Before We Were Free," extols this novel for its rich Latino background. Educators have made plans to use the book as one of their teaching tools next year. Osa even won the Delacore Press Prize for her novel. Don't miss one of this year's most acclaimed books for young women such as you!
XStephanie Nolasco, 16, of New York is a teen correspondent for Blue Jean Online. Read more articles and reviews by young women at http://www.bluejeanonline.com, or check out the book "Blue Jean: What Young Women are Thinking, Saying and Doing."