This is a wonderful resource for the study, discussion, and understanding of the contemporary history of Cuba. Delving into often-ignored areas of daily and institutional experience, and opening with an admirably lucid introduction, this text will become an indispensable tool for the teaching of contemporary Cuba in the English-speaking world. -- James Dunkerley, University of London This book is outstanding in both the breadth and depth of its coverage of Cuba today. The forty-nine contributions span the gamut of Cuban politics, economics, foreign policy, social transformation, and culture. The coeditors are to be applauded for an engaging volume that will stand the test of time. -- Cynthia McClintock, George Washington University [An] excellent anthology... These articles by various scholars examine the role of the Communist Party and the armed forces, agricultural transformation, the emergence of class divisions in the 'dollar economy,' cultural changes and various aspects of Cuban foreign policy. For readers who hope to understand contemporary Cuba and our relationship with her government and people, these essays will be highly informative. Booklist This amalgamation of Cuban politics, economics, foreign policy, social issues and culture leaves even the experienced cubanologist feeling that she or he has been on an essential crash course to understand contemporary Cuba... I congratulate the editors and contributors for producing an informative, well-organised and timely book. International Journal Of Cuban Studies, October 2008 The 49 contributions to this outstanding anthology trace continuity and change during Cuba's "special period." Foreign Affairs With chapters written by an international who's who of specialists in contemporary Cuban politics, international relations, economics, culture, and society-all framed by an uncommonly useful introduction-A Contemporary Cuba Reader is among those few edited volumes that should be on every Latin Americanist's bookshelf. Highly recommended. -- Lars Schoultz, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill This comprehensive and impressive anthology traces the extraordinary transition process that took place during what Fidel Castro dubbed Cuba's 'Special Period.' ... The stated goal of the editors is to provide undergarduates with a resource that brings together the best of Cuban scholarship, and they have certainly done that... There remains so much in this book that is relevant, worthwhile and informative that it may be recommended to all students of contemporary Cuba and as an excellent core reader for any course on the same topic. Journal Of Latin American Studies
Philip Brenner is professor of international relations and director of the Inter-Disciplinary Council on Latin America at American University. Marguerite Rose JimZnez is a graduate student in the School of International Service at American University. John M. Kirk is professor of Latin American studies at Dalhousie University. William M. LeoGrande is dean of the School of Public Affairs and professor of government at American University.
