D.H. Figueredo’s picture book story is based on memories of his own Cuban childhood in the 1950s. Alfredito can’t wait to get to his grandmother’s house in Santiago for Noche Buena, the night before Christmas. There, his extended family and all the traditional holiday food await him. But this year, war has broken out. As the government and the rebels fight, transportation is disrupted. There will be no train to Santiago from Havana. Thanks to the kindness of strangers and a disgruntled but complying bus driver, Alfredito and his parents do eventually make it to Santiago, but not before a few harrowing moments from Alfredito’s point of view. They join the rest of the family who have gathered at Abuela’s house to celebrate and give thanks. An author’s note places the story in 1958, and explains that the rebels who were fighting the dictatorial government were led by an insurgent named Fidel Castro. But the story remains centered on young Alfredito’s perspective, which is much more concerned with the possibility of missing out on his grandmother’s buñuelo, a traditional honey-coated pastry, than who is fighting whom. Spanish artist Pablo Torrecilla’s full-color paintings form the visual backdrop for the story. (Ages 6–8)

It's Noche Buena, the night before Christmas, and Alfredito and his parents head for the train station for their annual trip to their relatives in Santiago. But this year things are different. The government is fighting a war against the rebels and the trains are not running. Alfredito worries that they'll miss the family's traditional Christmas celebration and all the special foods.

Alfredito's father enlists the help of a farmer, and they set out down the bumpy road. Little does Alfredito know, they are embarking on a great adventure he will never forget.

Based on author D.H. Figueredo's own experiences growing up in Cuba in the late 1950s, THE ROAD TO SANTIAGO is an action-packed celebration of the human spirit. This heartwarming story is perfect for sharing with the whole family all year long.