Selecting the Best

Main Themes and Topics

"Selecting the Best" by A. Jack Jernigan is a profound exploration of personal and political transformation. The book delves into the effects of post-revolutionary Cuba, vividly portraying the journey of Cesar Mérez, a peasant boy who rises to the high rank of colonel in the Cuban military. The narrative tracks his transformation as he becomes embroiled in the brutal realities of sociopolitical conflict while fighting for socialist causes. This transformation serves as a broader commentary on the impact of ideology and personal ambition on the human spirit.

Parallel to Cesar's story is that of his American half-brother, Dr. Thomas Savage. The contrasting lives of the two brothers highlight themes of identity, family, and the struggles with one's inner demons. Their experiences raise questions about nature versus nurture and how our environments shape who we are. Ultimately, the journey of these two characters poses reflections on reconciliation and survival in the face of insurmountable odds.

Writing Style and Tone

A. Jack Jernigan employs a narrative style that is as compelling as it is vivid. He skillfully weaves between the lives of the two protagonists, capturing the essence of their environments with descriptive precision. The tone shifts seamlessly from the raw, visceral depictions of Cesar's militant life to the more introspective and often turbulent inner world of Dr. Thomas Savage. The language is both rich and accessible, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the dual narratives.

Brief Summary

"Selecting the Best" follows the intertwined lives of Cesar Mérez and Dr. Thomas Savage. Cesar's story is set against the backdrop of post-revolutionary Cuba, chronicling his rise in the military and the transformations he undergoes as a result of the brutality he encounters. Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, Dr. Thomas Savage grapples with family dilemmas and personal demons. Despite their divergent paths, fate inexorably pulls the two brothers together, culminating in a dramatic encounter that forces them to confront their shared history and each other.