The author reflects on his childhood growing up in 1960s Cuba, discussing how his family was treated for applying for an exit visa to the United States, his fears of being drafted into the Army, the conditions of his poor neighborhood, and more.

Coming to Glorytown -- The revolution -- The Bay of Pigs -- Our last noche buena -- More changes -- Stories to ease the pain -- Tío William's arrest -- 149901 -- Gusanos -- Remember the Lord -- More goodbyes -- Panetelas de Vainilla -- The ashes of spring -- La Natividad -- Nguyen Van Troy -- Papa's homecoming -- Señora Santana -- A taste of freedom -- Planning to escape -- Flight to freedom.