Carlos Acosta (1) (1973–)

I’ve always had a thing for the underdog. I mean, honestly, who hasn’t at one point or another in their lives? I put this book on my TBR list a few years ago, and only recently did the notification pop up that it was available in my library (granted, I wasn’t looking too hard when I was in GA, but I digress…).

I’m really torn on this book, because I really, desperately, want to admire what Carlos Acosta, and his family, sacrificed for him to achieve his status in the world today. I show more think what makes it hard to fully admire this is because the hard work is so downplayed in this memoir, and instead, the delinquency, the disrespect for his parents, the disregard for the world of ballet is brought to the forefront, cheapening the effect of what could have been a very, very powerful story.

So, rather than focus on the work, on detailing the hours of sweat, speaking of the performances and the struggles within the world of ballet, Carlos Acosta instead, focuses solely on the struggles in his outer world. Now, granted, they were struggles no one should have to deal with. His family frequently was in need of food, and Cuba is definitely not a paradise on earth. His descriptions of his hometown, and the nature surrounding it were lush and I felt like I could envision what he was trying to paint for me … but then he would move back to these, semi-dramatic moments that just distracted from the story.

The other issue I had with the story is the massive rise of ego – from virtually nothing at the beginning until I felt like I was being choked with it at the end. That could be his youth (he was only 25 at the time of this memoir), but it left me with a distaste for the person he’d become.

I’d only recommend this book if you are a fan, or a ballet enthusiast. Otherwise, pass this memoir by and go read his Wikipedia entry. show less

Engrossing book with a twisted plot ending which is somewhat of a cop out. This is the story of Oscar Mandingo,a fourth generation descendant of the founders of the town of Pata de Puerco and the bearer of a magical pig's foot amulet. All alone, Oscar goes in search of his heritage based on what his grandfather, Benicio Mandinga always told him, "No man knows who he is until he knows his past, his history, the history of his country". Even with the last second plot twist, the story is still show more engaging. show less

This was not written very well but the events are interesting enough to keep one engaged.

Excellent memoir! Terrific story about the rise to success of a young, gifted ballet dancer from Cuba.