Modern Cuban history, from a personal point of view, is very interesting to me. The struggle that the Cuban people have gone through is so intense, and this book is no different: intense is the right word.

Sonya is 17 at the beginning; she is smitten with Fidel and his revolution and while she is studying to be a doctor to make her father happy, she also wants to be an artist and a soldier. As Fidel takes power Sonya slowly grows up, realizing that revolutionary dreams and revolutionary reality are two very different things. Promises are broken, society breaks down and for Sonya, who truly believed that a bright new future was coming — it’s a very emotional journey.

Let me give you fair warning: no pun intended, but there are some graphic scenes in this graphic novel. There are torture and interrogation, wartime violence and suffering. Because we are seeing it through Sonya’s eyes, it’s not only upsetting but terrifying. I cannot imagine having to live through some of her experiences, and it is apparently based on the life of the author: to live in fear, every day; to watch people you love disappear, some to safety in America and some into the hands of the people who told you they would make your country better. So, if you are prepared to see a few disturbing images, this account has something very important to say.

Rated: High for nudity (not sexual, however), torture and strong language. Adult themes here.