The Surrender Tree

Engle, M. (2008). The surrender tree. NY: Holt. Rosa is the main character in this mostly historically accurate book told through verse. Rosa is a healer or a witch depending on your view. She is helping to heal the Cubans who are injured and sick through the three wars for Cuban independence from Spain. We follow Rosa from childhood through adult hood as she marries and even teaches others to heal like her including Silvia. We read the view points of many characters to gain an understanding of the wars and their ugly truths in the camps and enslavements. The strongest voice of pro-slavery comes from Lieutenant Death. I am Cuban-American and found this story sad because I could feel the loss of hope from some perspectives and the strong hold of hope in others. I also find it sad because I know the history and where Cuba is today, still not being ruled by the people. This would be a great addition to American history because of our relationship with Cuba and Spain. I think an honors class would even be able to take this story and consider the viewpoints of revolution and our countries role in supporting which side. Poetry moves the soul, it is a fantastic genre and this story is enduring because of the presence of voice in each poem.